BAGHDAD (AP) — Iraq's parliament has endorsed a new oil minister who will oversee Iraq's lucrative energy sector for the next four years.
Abdul-Karim Elaibi, a Shiite, is replacing Hussain al-Shahristani who was the architect of Iraq's plans to lure international investment to its beleaguered industry.
Elaibi, a close aide to al-Shahristani, is expected to continue with the plans already put in place by Shahristani. As senior deputy in the oil ministry, Elaibi was instrumental in overseeing Iraq's oil deals with Western companies and neighboring countries.
He holds a B.A. degree in oil engineering from the University of Baghdad.
Tuesday's endorsement was part of a vote on a new government after months of deadlock following the country's inconclusive March 7 election.
