Chinese energy giant Sinopec is exploring plans to build an oil and gas enterprise in Kyrgyzstan, signaling a potential boost to the country's industrial and energy sectors.

The proposal was discussed during a working visit by Kyrgyz Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Erlis Akunbekov to China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, where he held talks with executives from several leading Chinese companies, The Caspian Post reports via Sputnik Kyrgyzstan.

A key meeting took place with Hou Qijun, Chairman of the Board of Sinopec, one of the world's largest oil and gas corporations. The sides reviewed potential joint projects involving oil and gas production, processing facilities, and renewable energy development in Kyrgyzstan.

The discussions highlight growing economic cooperation between Bishkek and Beijing, particularly in strategic sectors aimed at strengthening energy security and industrial capacity.

In addition to the talks with Sinopec, Akunbekov met with representatives of CIECC Planning and Design Research, Beijing Huafu Engineering, and Shaanxi Construction New Energy. The parties discussed the possibility of building a mineral fertilizer plant in Kyrgyzstan, the project officials say carries significant investment potential.

Founded in 1998, Sinopec is one of the world's largest integrated energy and chemical companies. Headquartered in Beijing, the state-owned enterprise operates across the entire oil and gas value chain, including exploration, production, refining, petrochemicals, storage, transportation, and fuel marketing.

Sinopec consistently ranks among the world's largest corporations by revenue and is one of China's leading energy companies alongside China National Petroleum Corporation and CNOOC. The company has a significant international presence, with investments and projects spanning Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America.

In recent years, Sinopec has also expanded into renewable energy, hydrogen, carbon capture, and low-carbon technologies as part of China's broader energy transition strategy. The company is frequently listed among the top global energy firms and remains a key player in China's efforts to secure energy resources worldwide.