Shafaq News- Baghdad
Iraq's Oil Ministry said on Thursdayit could reconsider the country's membership in OPEC if the organization doesnot raise its oil production quota, after government sources told Shafaq NewsBaghdad was weighing such a move.
"There is currently nointention to withdraw from OPEC, and we remain committed to working within theorganization's framework," ministry spokesperson Salim Al-Rikabi said in astatement received by Shafaq News.
Al-Rikabi added that the ministry ispressing ahead with plans to increase Iraq's oil production in line with thecountry's capabilities and future needs, stressing that OPEC should raise Iraq'sproduction quota.
“If the organization fails to do so,Iraq will decide whether to remain a member or withdraw.”
Government sources told Shafaq Newson Wednesday that Baghdad is weighing higher oil exports beyond OPEC'sproduction ceiling and could consider leaving the organization if its requestfor a larger production quota is rejected, with any decision likely after PrimeMinister Ali Al-Zaidi's planned visit to Washington next month.