China has called on the United States to immediately abolish its unilateral sanctions on Venezuela, following Washington’s move to initiate the sale of Citgo Petroleum Corporation, a subsidiary of Venezuela’s state-owned oil company, PDVSA. At a regular press briefing on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian expressed strong opposition to the US actions, urging an end to interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs.
“The forced sale of Citgo constitutes a new episode of multifaceted aggression executed by US institutions against Venezuela,” Lin said, echoing a statement from the Venezuelan government that condemned the move. Citgo Petroleum Corporation, based in the United States, specializes in crude oil refining and fuel distribution within US territory and is a significant asset of PDVSA.
China has long upheld the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, Lin emphasized. “We oppose illegal unilateral sanctions and the long-arm jurisdiction imposed by the United States on Venezuela,” he stated. Lin called on the US to “fully abolish these sanctions and do more to promote peace, stability, and development in Venezuela and the region.”
The US has maintained sanctions on Venezuela in response to political developments in the country, targeting its oil industry and government officials. The recent move to proceed with the sale of Citgo marks a significant escalation in the economic pressure exerted by Washington on Caracas.
China and Venezuela have maintained close diplomatic and economic ties, with China investing in Venezuela’s energy sector and infrastructure projects. Beijing’s call for the lifting of sanctions underscores its stance on respecting national sovereignty and non-interference in other countries’ internal matters.
The situation has drawn international attention, with analysts watching closely how the developments will impact global oil markets and geopolitical dynamics in the region. China’s position highlights the growing complexities in international relations where economic interests and diplomatic principles intersect.
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China urges U.S. to abolish illegal unilateral sanctions on Venezuela
cgtn.com
