Premier stresses exploitation of oil, gas
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-06-26 11:23

China should make further efforts in exploitation, production and economical use of petroleum and natural gas so as to maintain the long-term stable development of the national economy, said Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Beijing Friday.

Wen made the remark while listening to a report by academicians with the Chinese Academy of Engineering on the sustainable development of China's petroleum and natural gas resources. The Chinese Academy of Engineering kicked off a relevant strategic research in May 2003.

The report, based on a year-long research, is focused on strategies for supply and demand of petroleum and natural gas, the exploitation strategy, overseas development and import strategies, oil saving strategy, petrochemical industry strategy, petroleum security and storage strategy and relevant laws and regulations.

Speaking highly of the report, Wen said key issues that may influence the country's social and economic progress should stand up to reasoning by scientists.

As China's consumption of petroleum and natural gas is rapidly increasing, the shortage of oil and gas supply has limited the economic and social development, he said.

He underscored domestic exploitation and development of oil and gas resources, utilization of international markets, efficient and economical use of oil and gas resources, development of new energy and the establishment of an oil storage system.

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