Photo: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian

China respects Venezuela's sovereignty and independence and believes the Venezuelan government will properly handle its internal affairs in accordance with its constitution and laws, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday. 

Lin made the remarks in response to media questions on whether China has had any contact with Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodriguez and whether China will continue importing Venezuelan oil, following statements by the US that it will step up investment in Venezuela's oil sector.

China-Venezuela cooperation is cooperation between two sovereign states and is protected by international law as well as the laws of both countries, Lin said. 

Regardless of changes in Venezuela's domestic political situation, China's willingness to deepen pragmatic cooperation with Venezuela across various fields will remain unchanged, the spokesperson noted, adding that the Chinese side's legitimate interests in Venezuela will also be protected in accordance with the law.

Global Times