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Oil prices rise ahead of US jobs data

London - Oil prices rose on Friday as investors looked ahead to key US jobs data and tracked developments surrounding a possible military strike against Syria.

Brent North Sea crude for delivery in October gained 11 cents to $115.37 a barrel approaching midday in London.

New York's main contract, West Texas Intermediate for October, climbed 28 cents to $108.65.

"Brent crude oil remained above $115 per barrel... supported by fears that a US military strike on Syria could spread unrest in the Middle East and disrupt energy supplies," broker Marex Spectron said in a note to clients.

"US jobs data later today will be closely monitored for signs that the Federal Reserve may start winding back its stimulus programme."

Eyes were on the release of US non-farm payrolls data to be released on Friday.

While a strong figure would provide more evidence the world's top oil consumer is on the road to recovery, it would also signal the beginning of the end of the US Federal Reserve's stimulus programme, which has fuelled an investment drive in emerging economies.

World leaders at the G20 summit have failed to bridge their bitter divisions over US plans for military action against the Syrian regime, with Washington signalling that it has given up on securing Russia's support at the UN on the crisis.

The summit concludes at about 14:00.

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