KRG Reaffirms Constitutional Rights in Landmark Energy Agreements with US Firms
In a statement, the KRG’s Ministry of Natural Resources emphasized that the agreements are fully consistent with the Kurdistan Region’s rights under Iraq’s permanent constitution, which recognizes the Region as a federal entity with clear powers and authorities.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) on Tuesday reaffirmed its constitutional authority over natural resources following the signing of two major energy agreements with U.S.-based companies HKN Energy and WesternZagros.
In a statement, the KRG’s Ministry of Natural Resources emphasized that the agreements are fully consistent with the Kurdistan Region’s rights under Iraq’s permanent constitution, which recognizes the Region as a federal entity with clear powers and authorities.
“These agreements are legally sound and fully aligned with the Kurdistan Region’s constitutional rights,” the ministry said, underscoring the legitimacy and long-standing legal foundation of the contracts, which have also been upheld by Iraqi courts.
The ministry clarified that the agreements are not new, but rather part of existing, long-term contracts with international energy partners. The only changes involve companies operating under those agreements, which remain within established legal and contractual frameworks.
Signed on Monday under the supervision of Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, the deals aim to increase natural gas production to fuel power plants and enhance electricity supply. The agreements, valued at tens of billions of dollars, are expected to significantly contribute to the Region’s economic infrastructure and energy sector.
The ministry also highlighted that both HKN Energy and WesternZagros have a proven track record of investment in the Kurdistan Region, reinforcing the Region’s commitment to attracting and maintaining trusted international partnerships.
