China says its cooperation with Venezuela is protected by law

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Monday that cooperation between China and Venezuela is protected by international law and the laws of both countries, and that the cooperation does not concern any third party and should not be subjected to interference by any third party.

Mao made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a question on whether Venezuela has assured Beijing that its oil interests will not be affected by a recent agreement signed between Venezuela and the United States regarding exploiting Venezuelan oil fields.

"China's legitimate rights and interests in Venezuela must be protected," she added.