President Nicolas Maduro addresses supporters after electoral authorities declare him the winner of the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela, on July 29, 2024. Photo: CFP

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a message to Nicolas Maduro, congratulating him on re-election as president of Venezuela.

Separately, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at Monday’s press briefing that China congratulates Venezuela on the smooth presidential election and congratulates President Nicolas Maduro on his successful reelection.

In response to a question about some countries including the US and the UK expressing doubts about the election results, Lin, the spokesperson, said at Tuesday’s press briefing that regarding the Venezuelan presidential election, all parties should respect the choice made by the Venezuelan people. 

We believe that the Venezuelan government and people can handle their internal affairs, said Lin.

Noting that China and Venezuela are good friends and partners, Lin said on Monday that China attaches great importance to its relations with Venezuela and stands ready to work with the Venezuelan side to enrich the all-weather strategic partnership between the two countries and deliver more benefits for the two peoples.

Pan Deng, director of the Latin American and Caribbean Region Law Center of China University of Political Science and Law, has been invited by Venezuela’s National Electoral Council to serve as an international observer in the country. Pan said local people’s earnest wish is stability and employment. They do not want to see large-scale conflict or turmoil in Venezuela after the election.

Global Times