China firmly supports Venezuelan government and people in safeguarding their sovereignty

China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday (January 6) that it firmly supports the Venezuelan government and people in safeguarding their sovereignty, security and legitimate rights and interests.

"China stands ready to work with countries in the region and the international community to jointly maintain peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean," foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular news briefing.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres raised concerns on Monday (January 5) about greater instability in Venezuela after the U.S. capture of President Nicolas Maduro, while the United States said it does not plan to occupy the Latin American country. China, Russia and Colombia have condemned the U.S. military operation as illegal.

Xi on Monday urged all countries to abide by international law and principles of the U.N. charter. He said major powers should set an example, while stopping short of naming the U.S. or Venezuela.

Production: Wang Shubing, Nicoco Chan/Reuters