On January 20, at the turning-over ceremony of Changbei Phase I Project's operatorship held in Beijing, CNPC officially took on the role as operator of the project instead of Shell.

CNPC and Shell signed a contract on gas development and production at Changbei Block in 1999. The block, part of Changqing Oilfield in the Ordos Basin, covers an area of 1,691 square kilometers, and boasts an annual production capacity of 3.3bcm currently. At Changbei project, excellent performance has been achieved in efficient tight gas development, operational safety, key operation index maintenance, operating cost control, and facility reliability. The project is the first to apply extended-reach dual-lateral horizontal well drilling on a large scale in onshore China to tap low-permeability gas reservoirs.

After the take-over, CNPC and Shell will continue to deepen cooperation on the basis of mutual trust and mutual benefit, speed up the Phase II project for capacity building, and ensure the continuous excellent performance of Changbei project.

About CNPC

CNPC is China's largest oil and gas producer and supplier, as well as one of the world's major oilfield service providers and a globally reputed contractor in engineering construction. With a presence in almost 70 countries, we are seeking an even greater international role. We provide energy in a profitable manner, and always attach great importance to our social and environmental responsibilities.​

About Royal Dutch Shell plc

Royal Dutch Shell plc is incorporated in England and Wales, has its headquarters in The Hague and is listed on the London, Amsterdam, and New York stock exchanges. Shell companies have operations in more than 70 countries and territories with businesses including oil and gas exploration and production; production and marketing of liquefied natural gas and gas to liquids; manufacturing, marketing and shipping of oil products and chemicals and renewable energy projects.