China turns to Middle East for oil

China’s premier, Wen Jiabao, has begun a three-country tour of the oil-rich Gulf nations.

The industrial giant’s own oil fields do not produce enough crude to keep its economy at full steam – so Beijing has to import half of all its supplies.

Now, with world oil supplies under pressure, and the US pushing for more sanctions on Iran, China is keen to attract potential suppliers.

Al Jazeera’s Nicole Johnston has more.