Major oil has been global for many decades and they carry more than a bit of influence wherever they play. Our CEO's met with many world leaders far more than the POTUS has.
To bad you don't read books Ed.....everyone needs to read Friends In High Places by Laton McCartney....it pretty much says exactly what you just said and explains exactly who bought and paid for who over the years (especially pertaining to the oil industry)....highly recommend...