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US Firm Secures Oil Deal with US-Backed Forces in Syria

Sirwan Kajjo

   WASHINGTON - A U.S. company has reportedly reached a deal with
   Kurdish-led authorities in northeast Syria to develop and export crude
   oil in areas under their control in the war-torn country.

   A senior official at the Kurdish-led Autonomous Administration in
   Northeast Syriasaid the deal was approved by the U.S. government.

   "As per the deal, a refinery will be built in northeast Syria with a
   cost of $150 million," the Kurdish official told VOA on the condition
   of anonymity.

   "The company will explore [for] oil in three locations in northeast
   Syria, including Rumeilan, Tel Hamees and Tel Brak," the official
   added.

   Delta Crescent Energy LLC is reportedly involved in the deal. VOA could
   not reach the company for comment.

   'Modernizing' oil fields

   Details about the agreement first emerged last week from U.S. Secretary
   of State Mike Pompeo during a congressional hearing.

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