This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Venezuela. Over the half century, the two countries deepened cooperation in various fields such as trade, aerospace and cultural exchanges, regardless of how the international and regional situation changes.
China and Venezuela established formal diplomatic relations on June 28, 1974. In 2014, the two countries updated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. In 2018, they signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative. In 2023, the two sides elevated bilateral ties to an all-weather strategic partnership.
China has expanded bilateral trade with Venezuela, with total trade in goods in 2023 increasing 11.1 percent year on year to $4.18 billion. China's exports to Venezuela rose 17.8 percent to $3.45 billion. Major exports include electrical appliances, computers, electronic products, machinery and equipment.
China and Venezuela strengthened cooperation in technology and aerospace. In 2008, China launched Venezuela's first satellite, the Venesat-1, which carried communication facilities. In 2012, Venezuela's first remote-sensing satellite, the VRSS-1, was also launched into space from China.