The Sudanese Minister of Oil and Gas, Dr. Mohamed Zayid Awad, has disclosed that Chinese companies desire to invest in the country’s oil and gas, pointing out that China already holds 75% of foreign oil investments in the country, All Africa reported.

The Sudanese minister added that CNPC seeks to explore for oil and gas in a number of blocks including block 25 in the White Nile state, block 8 in Sennar state, block 2 and 6 in West Kordofan state.

In addition, Awad said that the Sudanese government has laid out 170 projects in various fields for the Chinese investors. Six Chinese companies confirmed their interest in gas exploration. The minister added that he discussed with China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) possible oil investments. According to the Sudan Tribune, Dr. Awad pointed that a delegation from CNPC will arrive in Khartoum to explore new investment opportunities.

Sudan lost 75% of its oil reserves after the southern part of the country became an independent nation in July 2011.