Iraq announces tenders for Iraq-Iran pipelines, Akkas gas field and testing of Kirkuk and Rumaila

Plus:
*Putin's plea for Iraq oil deals during Lukoil CEO's visit
*The power struggle
*Basra violence get Maliki visit

Iraq announced tenders for international oil companies to test two of its largest oil fields, develop a major natural gas field and build a pipeline to Iran, Ben Lando reports for UPI. The four tenders, revealed on the Oil Ministry Web site, are part of the country's larger effort to increase oil production and exports while meeting domestic demand.

Russian President Putin pres…