China Vows Venezuela Ties Unshaken After President's Capture

China has reaffirmed its commitment to energy cooperation with Venezuela, calling the partnership "protected by international law." The statement comes after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured and taken to the United States over the weekend. Beijing is the largest buyer of Venezuelan oil. When asked if China would continue imports, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian did not give a direct answer. Instead, he stressed China's consistent position. "China remains committed to developing the strategic partnership with Venezuela," Lin said on Monday. "Our cooperation in various fields, including energy and trade, is conducted under the framework of international law." The remarks signal China's intent to maintain its substantial economic interests in Venezuela despite the dramatic political shift. The two nations have a long-standing relationship built on major loans and oil-for-cash agreements.