Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao comments on china's investments in iran's energy sector
CHINESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
February 29, 2008
Excerpts
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Q: CNOOC is supposed to be signing a deal with Iran to develop the north part of Iran's gas field. The US has been greatly opposed to foreign countries helping Iran to develop its oil and gas resources at a time when it's under UN sanctions for its nuclear program. Is China concerned about diplomatic repercussions of this deal, particularly with the United States, or is there a concern that the deal might help Iran evade UN sanctions?
A: Firstly, the energy cooperation between CNOOC and Iran is nothing beyond a business deal between relevant enterprises. Secondly, China is highly concerned about the Iranian nuclear issue, and has taken an active part in relevant negotiations. At present, China is having close contact and consultation with other Security Council member states over the resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue.
China upholds that the international nuclear non-proliferation regime should be safeguarded. Meanwhile, we believe that all countries are entitled to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Iran should now implement relevant Security Council resolutions earnestly, and actively respond to the request and appeals of the international community to create conditions for resumption of negotiations. On the other hand, UN Security Council's resolutions and actions should contribute to the peaceful solution of the issue through dialogue and consultation. Actions against Iran should not affect or impair normal economic and energy cooperation with Iran.
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