Loans to Venezuela are relatively safe

With Venezuela facing a deep economic crisis and political stalemate, Beijing's loans to Caracas have become a heated topic of discussion at home and abroad, especially after the Western media reported that China recently sent an "unofficial envoy" to meet with Venezuela's opposition party. Such reports are not confirmed by Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Some Western media outlets interpreted this as China's attempt to curry favor with Venezuela's opposition to ensure its loans to the country are recognized even if President Nicolas Maduro steps down. This perception is wrong.

Since China adheres to the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs, it will continue its mutually beneficial cooperation with Venezuela on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence no matter which political party is in power. Also, there is no reason for a Venezuela ruled by a certain political party not to deal with foreign creditors, especially China, its largest foreign creditor.