Pipelines to and from Iran seen as way to ease fuel demands for power plants and diversify oil export options.
A new 5-year plan for economic and social development in Iraq offers little details, but relies on oil exports to double and fund projects that will only succeed if security improves.
Fuel dealers decry Oil Ministry policy restricting retail prices and limiting profits.
Oil Ministry looks to face challenges of reaching 12.5 million bpd by bringing together its staff, other ministries, and officials from international oil companies.
UPDATE: date change Conference for four big refinery projects could more than make up for fuel demand, leaving foreign investors export options.
Twelfth contract signed with foreign firms since 2008 will push production capacity to more than 12.5 million bpd within seven years, boosting Missan province's oil standing. And more deals may be in the pipeline.
POTUS protects Iraq from creditors in continuation of 2003 policy. Companies and countries claim Iraq owes billions in unpaid debt and damages from Saddam Hussein era.
Iraqi Oil Ministry to sign contract for fields offered in June 2009 auction after months of negotiations.
Political and energy officials in province express impatience, make plans for expected oil revenue increase, and seek rural access to electricity, after visit to Malaysia.
Forty-five foreign oil companies eligible to bid on three gas fields and jump-start Iraq's massive but under-performing natural gas industry. Minister says 2009 oil auctions a model for Iraq and the region.
