French energy giant Total, China Power Investment Corp. (CPIC) and the People's Government of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have signed a framework agreement on joint development of a coal-to-olefin (CTO) project in Inner Mongolia's Ordos. With the signing of the agreement, Total and CPIC will accelerate the feasibility study and other preparatory work for coal based petrochemicals JV project in Inner Mongolia in line with relevant industry plans and policies. A formal project application will be submitted to the Chinese authorities for approval soon.