China, Iraq to strengthen energy cooperation (Xinhua) Updated: 2004-12-02 21:42
Visiting Iraqi Oil Ministry chief Thamir Abbas Ghadhban assured Chinese
vice-premier Zeng Peiyan here Thursday that Iraq and China share good prospects
for energy cooperation.
Ghadhban said that Iraqi people cherish their traditional friendship with the
Chinese and welcome Chinese enterprises to actively take part in the country's
oil industry reconstruction and economic development.
He said that Iraqi government would take measures to protect the legitimate
interests of all foreign enterprises and strive to create a peaceful and safer
environment for the development of both individuals and businesses.
Zeng said that Chinese government would like to enhance its friendly
relationship with Iraq in an all-round way under the principle of mutual
respect, equality and mutual benefits.
"Iraq is an important energy power in the Middle East. Restoration of its oil
production will help stabilize the world's turbulent oil market," he said.
After decades of years of development, Chinese oil industry has accumulated
plenty of good experiences in the exploration and the utilization of refining
equipment. China also enjoys advantages in funding, technology, skilled
technicians and equipment, Zeng said.
To help Iraqi people quicken their economic development and become well-off
fast, Chinese government will encourage domestic business to participate in the
reconstruction of oil industry in Iraq.
Chinese people sincerely wish Iraqis a return to peace and security as early
as possible, Zeng said.
