Exxon Mobil deal hikes tension in northern Iraq
Exxon Mobil deal hikes tension in northern Iraq
BAGHDAD — An oil exploration deal between U.S. oil giant Exxon Mobil and Iraq’s autonomous Kurdish region is fueling political tensions in a country where a post-U.S.-troop withdrawal spike in violence and political turmoil is clouding the climate for foreign investments sorely needed by Iraq.
Baghdad’s anger over the deal highlights the long-simmering power struggle between the Kurdish and central governments. The dispute is building momentum as Iraqi Premier Nouri al-Maliki faces criticism over his stewardship of a country where, years after the 2003 U.S.-led war to topple Saddam Hussein, development remains a distant dream for millions.
The deal “will certainly contribute to further complicating the relationship” between the Kurds and Baghdad, said Gala Riani, Middle East and North Africa Regional Manager at the London-based IHS Global Insight.
It “may also raise tensions in border areas which have already become more restive as a result of the withdrawal of the U.S. troops,” he said.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2011/12/28/exxon-mobil-deal-hikes-tension-in-northern-iraq/
