China and US can strike ‘balance’ in Venezuela, says US energy chief Chris Wright
Chris Wright sees a constructive role for Beijing but insists Washington must remain the dominant force controlling Venezuela’s oil flows
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said there was room to balance roles for both the United States and China in Venezuela to allow for commerce but that Washington would not allow Beijing to have major control over the Latin American country.
In an interview on Fox Business Network, Wright also said he expected to see Chevron quickly grow its activities in Venezuela, with ConocoPhillips and ExxonMobil also looking to play a constructive role.
“I think you will probably see some long-term involvement of China in Venezuela,” he told the Mornings with Maria programme.
“As long as America is the dominant force there, the rule of law, the United States controls oil flow. That will be fine.
“Is there a balance that can be had with China? I think there is so.”
“In that framework, where Venezuela’s main partner … is the United States, can there be commerce with China? Sure. Are we going to allow Venezuela to become a client state of China? Absolutely not,” he added.