China eyes increased energy cooperation with US

[phantom power]

BEIJING (Reuters) - China and the United States should increase co-operation on energy issues ranging from crude oil production overseas to civilian nuclear programs, China's top economic planning body said in a statement on its Web site.

Co-operation should be deeper and more efficient, with priority placed on promoting stability in producing nations and secure oil shipping lanes, the National Development and Reform Commission said.

The world economy would benefit if China has secure energy supplies, but U.S. concerns about the rise of China's fast-growing economy could lead to restrictive legislation, the commission added.

"Geopolitics may lead to wider restrictions in terms of the relevant American policies, because a stronger China is considered a challenge to the United States," the statement said.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20051230/bs_nm/energy_china_usa_dc