Energy deal likely on Wen's Russia trip

Important progress in China-Russia energy cooperation is likely to be achieved during Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to Moscow next week, Deputy Foreign Minister Li Hui said yesterday.

"China and Russia have a positive and confident attitude toward promoting energy cooperation," Li told a press conference, after announcing that the premier would visit Russia and Kazakhstan from Oct 27 to 31.

Vice-Premier Wang Qishan will reach Russia two days before Wen to attend a bilateral energy dialogue, Li said. "The meeting will see a broad and thorough exchange of views on boosting cooperation in the fields of oil, natural gas and nuclear energy."