"Without any doubt, OPEC will preserve a price level between 22 and 28 dollars a barrel," said Ali al-Nuaimi, quoted by the official SPA news agency.

The Vienna meeting "will let OPEC oil ministers consult one another to ensure stability in the market, in accordance with the cartel's recent decisions."

Oil prices were almost unchanged Wednesday despite the dramatic collapse of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein's regime, as US tanks entered Baghdad with little resistance amid widespread popular support.

Reference Brent North Sea crude for May delivery was up eight cents at 24.65 dollars in late afternoon London trade.

SPACE.WIRE