Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Thursday met Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, saying that the two countries have fostered an unbreakable ironclad friendship.

Rodríguez is in Beijing to attend the 17th Meeting of China-Venezuela High-level Mixed Committee.

Noting China-Venezuela relations have maintained steady and sound development, Wang highlighted that the two sides have worked in close solidarity and stood firmly on the right side of justice, peace and history.

The two sides not only safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the two countries but also defend international justice, Wang added.

"We firmly support Venezuela in safeguarding its national independence and national dignity," Wang told Rodríguez, adding China is a trustworthy friend of Venezuela.

He also said China is ready to work with Venezuela to prepare for the next phase of high-level exchanges so as to promote new progress in bilateral cooperation and to create a new atmosphere, which will not only benefit the people of the two countries but also make a new contribution to peace and stability in the world.

Wang also mentioned that it is an inevitable trend in history for developing countries to rise as a group and make great strides on the international stage.

Under the current circumstances, developing countries should strengthen unity and cooperation to better safeguard their common interests, and China will continue to stand firmly with the vast number of developing countries and be a reliable partner for their development and prosperity, Wang stressed.

Rodríguez said her country is sincerely grateful to China's firm support for Venezuela's just cause against unilateral sanctions and unjustified blockades and firmly believes that the bilateral relationship will usher in a brighter future.

The fact that more than 40 countries in the world are willing to join BRICS fully demonstrates the world's desire for fairness and justice and its call for a more just and rational global governance system, she noted.

The vice president also vowed to continue to strengthen international coordination and cooperation with China.