09-09-04
China will work to strengthen co-operation with the GCC in the field of
energy, visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing said. Li acknowledged discussing the issue of high oil prices with Saudi officials.
GCC secretary general Abdulrahman Al Attiyah said the oil-producing member
states were ready to supply China with needed oil and gas "within the
strategic partnership" between the two parties.
He said China believes the Iraqi people should be able "to make
decisions independently soon," stressing that the United Nations
"should play an important role" in Iraq.
Source: Gulf Daily NewsChina aims for stronger energy ties with GCC
"We will work together to deepen our cooperation in the field of
energy," Li said after a meeting with the head of the council.
Li also said China would like to participate in the process of reconstruction in
Iraq, saying his country pledged to provide aid to the Iraqi people.
China and Saudi Arabia agreed to hold regular political consultations. China's
energy needs have soared as its economy has taken off.