Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2008

Niyazov's signature should clear the way for state-run geological company Turkmengeologiya to complete a contract with China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) concerning the Gunorta Yoloten natural-gas field in the Mary Region.

State-controlled Turkmen media say the contract is estimated to be worth nearly $152 million.

Turkmenistan is due to build a natural gas pipeline to China by 2009, and has sought to increase its capacity dramatically to supply the eastern, Russian, and European markets.

CNPC is China 's largest producer and supplier of crude oil and natural gas, with major refining and petrochemical operations.

(turkmenistan.ru)

Turkmenistan Set For Gas-Exploration Deal With China

November 21, 2006 -- Turkmen President Saparmurat Niyazov today authorized the signing of a three-year deal to allow a Chinese energy giant to explore for natural gas in eastern Turkmenistan.