China's foreign policy represents a paradigm shift in international diplomacy, Vice President Jorge Alberto Arreaza said in Caracas Monday.

The Chinese model of bilateral relations is not centered solely on economic and trade ties, but also stresses the respect for self-determination and the social fabrics of individual countries, he told reporters after accompanying Chinese President Xi Jinping in a visit to late President Hugo Chavez's mausoleum.

For example, he added, during his state visit to Venezuela Xi acknowledged Chavez's historical relevance and described him as a charismatic leader.

Beijing's support for Chavez's successor, President Nicolas Maduro, "makes us very committed to making these ties progress at a greater pace, to making them generate greater happiness for both countries," he said.

In addition, he hailed the relationship between Venezuela and China as a model for the rest of the world, saying Xi's visit is yet another demonstration of the exemplary ties.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan media are throwing the spotlight on Xi's visit, particularly his talks with Maduro, during which they decided to upgrade bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

"China and Venezuela share a vision ... And now we will raise the level of economic, financial, energy, cultural and technological cooperation," state-run daily Correo del Orinoco quoted Maduro as saying.

"Venezuela and China bolster ties with new agreements that 'will improve the quality of life' of the nation," noted online news portal Noticias 24.

Venezuela is the third leg of Xi's ongoing four-nation Latin America tour, which has taken him to Brazil and Argentina. He is to travel to Cuba later Monday.

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