The deal, signed on 18 February in Beijing, implies a step forward in a larger programme by Iran to boost its domestic production.
However, it also comes amid increased tension between Tehran and the international community over the former’s nuclear programme.
Under the deal, CPECC will build oil gathering facilities, central oil processing units, manifolds and export pipelines, targeting first oil by the end of 2013 at about 70,000 barrels per day.
China
