HOUSTON, June 6 : Brent crude rose more than $1 a barrel on Friday and oil prices were on track for their first weekly gain in three weeks after US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping resumed trade talks, raising hopes for growth and stronger demand in the world’s two largest economies.
Brent crude futures gained $1.50, or 1.61 percent, to $66.39 a barrel by 4:49 p.m. Saudi time. US West Texas Intermediate crude climbed $1.02, or 1.61 percent, to $64.39.
On a weekly basis, both benchmarks were on track to settle higher after declining for two straight weeks. Brent has advanced 2.75 percent this week, while WTI is trading 4.9 percent higher.
China’s official Xinhua news agency said trade talks between Xi and Trump took place at Washington’s request. Trump said the call had led to a “very positive conclusion,” adding the US was “in very good shape with China and the trade deal.”
Canada also continued trade talks with the US, with Prime Minister Mark Carney in direct contact with Trump, according to Industry Minister Melanie Joly.
