In secret agreement, Shell nets 25-year monopoly on S. Iraq's gas

[babsbunny]

In secret agreement, Shell nets 25-year monopoly on S. Iraq's gas

http://rawstory.com/news/2008/In_secret_agreement_Shell_nets_25year_1108.html

Stephen C. Webster
Published: Saturday November 8, 2008


Royal Dutch Shell oil company and the Iraqi Oil Ministry have struck a secret, as-of-yet non-binding agreement that gives a monopoly over southern Iraq's natural gas to the energy giant. It marks the first time in over 35 years a Western oil company has played a major role in the country's most lucrative industry.

Signed Sept. 22 and obtained by United Press International, the "Heads of Agreement" document -- basically a legal framework for a contract -- delegates Shell sole access to the reserves for the next 25 years, with an option to extend that term.

[msongs]

1. made possible by the American occupying military: gun-point contract nt