Rio, May 19, 2004 (Agência Brasil) - Petrobras and the Chinese firm Sinopec will work together around the world in activities of petroleum exploration, production, and refining. A contract with this objective will be signed on May 24 during President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's visit to China.

This information was provided yesterday (18) by the company's International director, Nestor Cerveró. He pointed out, however, that only after the contract is signed will the two companies analyze the projects in which they can collaborate.

The president of the state enterprise, José Eduardo Dutra, announced that Petrobras will open an office in Beijing on May 23. According to him, China is a market where everyone wants to be and Petrobras will evaluate the business opportunities.

Translator: David Silberstein