During an official visit to Berlin, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Saidi invited German companies to participate in Iraq's reconstruction and proposed exporting crude oil to Germany, including the possibility of a dedicated pipeline. He said Iraq aims to double oil production to 9–10 million barrels per day, with roughly half of the increase intended for Europe and Western markets. Both governments agreed an action plan to deepen cooperation on energy, infrastructure and trade.
Iraq Invites German Firms to Join Reconstruction, Proposes Supplying Oil to Germany via Dedicated Pipeline
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (R) and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih Kadhim al-Saidi speak during a press conference after their meeting. (is associated with: «Iraq invites German companies and offers them oil») Christoph Soeder/dpa
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Saidi, on an official visit to Berlin, invited German companies to take part in Iraq's reconstruction and offered bilateral arrangements that could include the export of crude oil.
Following talks with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, al-Saidi said, "German companies are welcome. German firms, and other firms too, can operate stably in Iraq." He highlighted Iraq's abundant raw materials and large workforce while stressing the country's need for technology and German expertise to modernize its infrastructure and industry.
Oil Export Plans and Pipeline Proposal
Al-Saidi proposed exporting Iraqi crude to Germany and discussed the possibility of constructing a dedicated pipeline to facilitate those shipments. Historically, Iraq has directed much of its oil exports to East Asia, but the prime minister said he wants to diversify markets. Existing export routes include pipelines to Turkey and Syria, and Baghdad is exploring Mediterranean options that could enable deliveries to France and other European buyers.
"Our vision is to double what we can produce. We want to reach nine to 10 million barrels a day," al-Saidi said, adding that roughly half of that increased output should be destined for Europe and the West.
Bilateral Action Plan and Economic Cooperation
Both governments agreed on an action plan to advance cooperation on reconstruction, energy and trade. Chancellor Merz said: "Germany has an interest in a strong and prosperous Iraq." The discussions also covered the importance of good relations between Baghdad and the Kurdish region in the north.
Many German companies are already active in Iraq, developing solutions in energy supply, waste management and other infrastructure projects. Al-Saidi framed the proposed partnership as mutually beneficial: Iraq offers resources and workforce, while Germany provides technology and expertise.
Outlook: If implemented, expanded oil exports to Europe and new infrastructure projects could shift Iraq's trade patterns and deepen economic ties with Germany and other Western partners. Achieving these goals would require sustained investment, security guarantees and regional cooperation.
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