China, Saudi Arabia reaffirm commitment to energy cooperation

BEIJING - China and Saudi Arabia reaffirmed their commitment to intensify energy cooperation as Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud concluded his four-day official visit on Sunday.

In a joint communique issued by both countries, the two sides pledged to strengthen cooperation in areas such as energy, trade, mineral resources, investment and infrastructure building, as well as in high-tech fields including aerospace and the peaceful use of nuclear power.

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China appreciates Saudi Arabia's contribution to accelerating free trade agreement talks between China and the Gulf Cooperation Council, according to the communique, adding they will work together for an early agreement on the talks.

On the Syria crisis, the two countries reiterated solving the issue through peaceful means, urging full implementation of the Geneva Communique released on June 30, 2012, which requires the establishment of a transitional governing body.

They called on the international community to offer more aid for Syrian people in the country and abroad.

The two countries also vowed to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in any form and to make the Middle East a nuclear-free region, according to the communique.

Both sides are opposed to terrorism in any form, and are also opposed to linking terrorism to any religion or any religious sect, said the communique.

Saudi Arabia condemned a terrorist attack in Southwest Chinese city of Kunming on March 1 and expressed sympathy with the Chinese people and families of victims, said the communique.

Salman, also deputy prime minister and defense minister of Saudi Arabia, visited Beijing from March 13-16. During his stay he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang. Vice President Li Yuanchao held talks with him.

The two countries signed several cooperation documents on quality inspection, investment and space technology during Salman's visit.