Iraq has resumed discussions with Syria over the rehabilitation of an oil pipeline that could significantly enhance its export capabilities, according to government sources.

A senior delegation, led by Hamid Al-Shatri, head of Iraq’s National Intelligence Service, arrived in Damascus on April 25 to explore the feasibility of restoring the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline. The mission’s objectives include evaluating technical hurdles, security challenges and repair costs.

The 800-km pipeline, running via Iraq’s Haditha, was built in the 1950s as an export route for oil from the fields around Kirkuk, had a nameplate capacity of 300,000 barrels per day (bpd) until it went out of operation after being damaged by US airstrikes during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Interestingly, given current Russian activity in Syria, it was a Russian company – Stroytrangaz, a subsidiary of Gazprom – that was involved twice in attempts to resuscitate the line.

The first, in 2007, was to have involved its reconstruction, but the contract was annulled in 2009, when no progress had been made. The second, agreed in September 2010, to build two new pipelines – one for heavy crude (planned capacity of 1.5mn bpd, from the northern Baiji area), and one for light crude (1.25mn bpd planned capacity) – was shelved. Plans were also mooted to connect the latter to the southern and central fields of Majnoon, Halfaya, Badra, Ahdab and East Baghdad.

A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, released shortly after the delegation’s departure, underscored Iraq’s strategic intent to diversify its export routes amidst regional uncertainties. “Under the guidance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the visit forms part of Baghdad’s efforts to strengthen regional cooperation and address critical economic needs,” read the communiqué. The delegation also comprises representatives from Iraq’s Ministries of Oil, Trade, and Interior, as well as its Border Ports Authority.

Efforts to revive the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline gained urgency following prolonged disruptions in Iraq’s oil exports via Turkey’s Ceyhan port. Analysts have noted that with Iraq’s heavy reliance on the northern export route, the pipeline to Syria represents a key opportunity to access alternative markets. Yet challenges loom large. Experts estimate restoration expenses could exceed $8bn, factoring in repair of sabotage damage and the pipeline’s outdated infrastructure.

Security concerns also dominate discussions. Years of war in Syria have left the region with pervasive instability, raising questions about the viability of sustained operations. Nevertheless, cooperation talks between Iraq and Syria extend beyond oil. The two nations are also focusing on counterterrorism, border security and economic integration.

In December, Iraqi government spokesman Bassim Al-Awadi said that Iraq was “considering reviving the oil export pipeline through Baniyas Port.” He added: “Iraq is searching for new oil export outlets […] we believe that Iraq is now ready to discuss with Syria the reconstruction of Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline.”