In a joint communiqué the two countries said China’s National Development and Reform Commission and Natural Resources Canada would maintain regular dialogue and exchanges of views.

"Contacts will be conducted through the Canada-China Joint Working Group on Energy Cooperation, which was agreed upon under a 2001 energy cooperation MOU," the communique said.

“The work of the group will initially focus on enhancing our partnership in the fields of multilateral cooperation, natural resources and energy, and trade and investment.”

Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin said his country aimed to strengthen cooperation in natural resources, investment and other fields.

"The Canadian business committee are here not for short-term prospects but for a long-term cooperation," Martin said.

"China and Canada have decided to work together to promote co-operation in the oil and gas sector, including Canada’s oil sands, as well as in the uranium resources sector.”