On December 15, 2008, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister He Yafei met with Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari.

During the meeting, He said China supports Iraq’s process of political reconciliation and economic reconstruction and is encouraged by the further improvement of the overall security situation in Iraq. There is huge potential in bilateral cooperation in the areas of economy, trade and energy, said He. The Chinese government will continue to encourage its businesses to take part in Iraq’s construction in energy, electricity, transportation and communications. He also thanked for Iraq’s firm support to China on the issues concerning Taiwan and Tibet.

Zebari appreciated the Chinese side for supporting its political reconciliation and economic reconstruction, expressing willingness to actively expand bilateral cooperation on energy and electricity.

Both sides also exchanged views on relevant United Nations Security Council issues concerning Iraq.