Iraqi Vice President Opposes Draft Oil Bill

Al-Hashimi was speaking today in Jordan on the sidelines of an international conference hosted by the Geneva-based World Economic Forum.

Al-Hashimi acknowledged a need for foreign expertise, but stressed that foreign partners should not receive "big privileges" as Iraqis seek to attract them.

Al-Hashimi also said he hopes oil corporations will invest in Iraq, despite ongoing security concerns.

The Iraqi government is debating a draft oil law that allows for dividing the country's vast oil wealth.

Al-Hashimi said his party, the largest Sunni grouping with 44 seats in the legislature, will seek to amend the draft ahead of passage.

(AP)

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