Iraq and Syria have agreed to establish a joint committee to evaluate and rehabilitate the Kirkuk-Baniyas oil pipeline, which has been out of service since it was damaged during the 2003 U.S. invasion, Xinhua reported.

The decision came during talks in Baghdad between Iraqi Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani and Syrian Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir. Discussions focused on restoring the pipeline, which has faced sabotage and aging issues. The ministers agreed to involve an international consultant to assess its operational viability, pumping systems, and repair needs, stressing its importance for boosting energy cooperation and serving both nations’ interests.