Pakistan, July 18 -- US companies have signed $60 billion in agreements with Iraq, including major energy projects designed to develop oil export routes that bypass the Strait of Hormuz. The deals aim to strengthen Iraq's energy infrastructure amid continued regional tensions affecting global oil markets.

The agreements were signed at the US Chamber of Commerce and cover sectors including energy, healthcare, communications, and infrastructure. However, oil pipeline projects attracted the greatest attention because they are expected to reduce reliance on the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

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