Late November in Siberia, Russia, with the temperature close to 30 degrees below zero, the earth is covered with pure white snow. At the critical moment of the rig installation and commissioning of the Rosneft Project, ZPEC Chairman Li Chundi travelled thousands of miles to arrive at the project. He brought his concerns to the staff and then encouraged everyone to carry forward the spirit of the "Iron Army" of ZPEC.  He inspired the team members to not be afraid of the environmental difficulties and to assume their responsibilities while maintaining their efficiencies.He proclaimed, “Let the banner of ZPEC fly high in Russia through your outstanding performance!”

ZPEC represents the first Chinese team to drill in the cold area of Russia, and this cooperation mode is the first attempt between the Russian and Chinese enterprises in the field of petroleum development. Due to the remote location, bad natural conditions, and less experience, the equipment transportation, logistics support, team management, and other aspects encountered unprecedented challenges. On the evening of November 20th, accompanied by the ZPEC Russian Company Manager, Yu Junquan, Chairman Li Chundi arrived at the project headquarters. He first met with ZPEC Russian Regional Manager and the Executive Manager of the Rosneft Project and discussed the present situation of the rig installations and project kickoff. On the morning of the 21st, they visited the well site. He shook hands with the Chinese management team and the Russian expert, and told everyone to keep warm. He admonished everyone to be efficient while ensuring safety. Then he checked the field equipment one by one, and asked about the progress and difficulties of the work. At last, Chairman Li pointed out that a reasonable plan should be adhered to concerning the use of resources, the scheduling and arrangements of personnel shifts, and their life support and living arrangements in order to maximize the progress in preparation for drilling to begin.

On November 22nd, Chairman Li returned to Gubkin Project base and met with Russian engineering and technical experts. He stressed the importance of cost control and at the same time put forward requirements on project management, production organization, profit index, the future workload, and so on.

Although ZPEC Chairman Li Chundi’s trip to Russian Rosneft Project was a short trip of only two days, the front-line employees were greatly encouraged. They reconfirmed that they have the confidence to overcome difficulties and to achieve the goal of construction and drilling efficiency. They will proudly display the spirit of the ZPEC “Iron Army” and live up to the trust of the group leader. (Reported by Yin Wendong Chen Feng)