TEHRAN, Feb. 1 (Shana) � Deputy Petroleum Minister for International Affairs and Commerce Amir-Hossein Zamani-Nia said that Iran and Ecuador will launch their joint energy commission as the Latin American country is interested in Iran�s partnership for construction of refinery and purchase of crude oil.

Following a meeting here on Tuesday with the visiting Ecuadorian deputy minister for strategic sectors, Anjolina Toral, he said both countries are ready to expand their relations in oil and gas industry.

Saying that Ecuador has expressed willingness to buy crude oil from Iran, Zamani-Nia added that it amount is pending on further negotiations.

�Ecuador is also interested in Iran�s cooperation to build refinery in the Latin American country as it wants to increase its refining capacity.�
The Iranian deputy minister also said that China is to finance expansion of Ecuador�s refining capacity.

�The petroleum ministry has announced its readiness for construction of refinery, export of crude oil and petrochemical products to Ecuador,� he said adding that the joint energy commission will be established through diplomatic channels.

By SHANA