China always believes that the Venezuela issue should be resolved by the Venezuelan people under the country's constitution and legal framework through dialogue, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday. 

Wang made the remarks in a phone conversation with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Felix Plasencia on the sidelines of the general debate of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly. 

Wang hailed the strong momentum in developing a comprehensive China-Venezuela strategic partnership amid the volatile international situation, underscoring the mutual understanding and trust between the two countries. 

He thanked Venezuela for supporting China's efforts in defending its legitimate interests and stressed that Beijing opposes Washington's "unlawful unilateral sanctions" on Venezuela. 

China will continue to firmly support Venezuela's efforts in safeguarding its sovereignty, dignity and legitimate rights and interests, he said. China believes that the Venezuelan people will win the fight against interference, sanctions and hegemony, he added. 

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Wang told Plasencia that China stands ready to deepen practical cooperation with Venezuela in various fields following principles of equality, mutual benefit, win-win cooperation and common development.  

Wang also underscored the healthy and stable development in China's cooperation with Latin America, vowing that China will maintain close communication and collaboration with Latin American and Caribbean countries on fighting COVID-19 and boosting economic recovery. 

Plasencia said Venezuela firmly supports China in defending its sovereignty and opposing external interference and is willing to enhance coordination and collaboration with China. 

Venezuela appreciates China's support in its fight against COVID-19 and is willing to actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China, he said.