In a final stage of testing before exports can begin, Kurdistan has begun sending crude through its new pipeline and into Turkish territory, despite unresolved conflicts with Baghdad.

As its energy alliance with Turkey solidifies, Kurdistan's oil sector has entered a new phase - but key questions remain.

Iraq's oil sales rose through both southern and northern export routes despite ongoing upgrades, maintenance and security issues.

The West Qurna 1 field now has PetroChina and Pertamina partners, though ExxonMobil retains operator role.

Two years after taking center stage in Iraq's oil disputes with its signing of six KRG production sharing contracts, ExxonMobil is about to start drilling for oil.

In Kurdistan, fearing for their environment and way of life, village councils have banded together to protest development of ExxonMobil's Betwata block.

CEO Bob Dudley's visit with Kirkuk and Baghdad leaders may clear the path for progress on BP's reservoir consultancy, and ultimately its long-term development of the Kirkuk field.

Southern exports increase as infrastructure upgrades take effect, though northern exports continue to plunge.