Law, disrupted Re-release: In House Corporate Counsel Practice in China
Nov 6, 2025
Leslie Zhang Weihua, Vice President and General Counsel of United Energy Group, shares his extensive legal experience within both state-owned and private energy companies in China. He explores the procedural differences between these entities, highlighting the complexities SOEs face in decision-making. Leslie also discusses the expectations of Chinese clients for creative legal solutions, contrasts the training and expertise of Chinese and Western law firms, and emphasizes the role lawyers can play in improving U.S.-China relations amidst rising tensions.
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Global Expansion From BP Asset Purchase
- Leslie Zhang describes United Energy Group's international expansion after acquiring BP's Pakistan assets and investing over $5 billion.
- He recounts growing into the largest foreign oil and gas company in Pakistan and expanding into Iraq, Egypt, Yemen, and new energy projects.
SOEs Prioritize Strategy Over Pure ROI
- Leslie says SOEs follow many procedures and consider strategic national goals, while private firms prioritize ROI and move faster.
- He highlights an SOE entry into Brunei driven by strategic positioning rather than immediate returns.
Offer Practical Workarounds, Not Just Law
- Leslie advises Western firms to offer commercially workable legal solutions, not just black-letter law opinions.
- He emphasizes Chinese clients expect creative compliance paths and practical options around regulatory limits.