BAGHDAD, February 6. /TASS/. The Iraqi side draws attention to the positive role of Russian oil companies in the investment sector, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said speaking at a joint press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

"We draw attention to the positive role of Russian oil companies in terms of investment, as well as in terms of continuing the activities of the oil and gas industry in Iraq. I would like to mention Lukoil, Gazprom and a number of others, to which the Iraqi government remains indebted. We are considering all possible ways to find a solution to the problem of outstanding debts to these companies," he said.

Hussein also noted that his country takes into account "national interests, as well as the concerns of the Central Bank of Iraq and the government of Iraq."

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the total investment of Russian operators in the development of the Iraqi oil and gas industry exceeds $13 billion. Currently, several major projects are being carried out in Iraq through Lukoil, Gazprom Neft, Bashneft, and Rosneft.