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.

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