China's Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yongqian Photo: Yin Yeping/GT

 
In response to recent US orders to block all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, He Yongqian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce, said at a regular press briefing on Thursday that China has consistently and firmly opposed the abuse of unilateral sanctions and so-called "long-arm jurisdiction" by certain countries. She noted that the arbitrary interception of other countries' oil tankers could not only disrupt the normal functioning of international energy markets, but also pose additional security risks.

The spokesperson made the remarks in response to a media question about reports that the US has recently ordered a blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela and has already intercepted three vessels. As China is one of the major buyers of Venezuelan crude oil, the reporter asked what impact the move would have on China-Venezuela crude oil trade and how the ministry views the US action.

He Yongqian added that Venezuela's conduct of economic and trade cooperation with other countries within the framework of international law is normal, reasonable and lawful, and that such rights should be respected and upheld.

Global Times