Through the ages, China and Venezuela's unbreakable bond shines anew

Editor's note: Decision Makers is a global platform for decision makers to share their insights on events shaping today's world. Lan Hu is the ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

June 28 this year marks a major milestone: the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Venezuela. Recently, celebrations of the anniversary were held across various sectors in both countries, reflecting the sincere friendship between the two nations that has stood the test of time and has remained resilient amidst the ever-changing global landscape. The dynamic and practical cooperation between China and Venezuela is widely praised for its vitality and bright prospects.

Through changing times, the commitment to deepening political trust between China and Venezuela has remained steadfast. Since establishing diplomatic ties, both countries have engaged actively in multi-level exchanges in politics, economy, trade and culture, thereby deepening mutual understanding. At the dawn of the new millennium, former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez proposed to prioritize comprehensive and friendly cooperation with China as a key component of Venezuela's government agenda, leading to a rapid enhancement of bilateral relations. Over the past decade, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and President Nicolas Maduro, both countries have deepened understanding and mutual recognition of one another's political systems, and have reaffirmed support in exploring development paths well-suited for national realities. This has led to comprehensive cooperation in various sectors, and bilateral relations have evolved from a comprehensive strategic partnership to an all-weather strategic partnership, a significant leap that has raised the bilateral relationship to one of trusted friends who are committed partners in development and steadfast comrades in strategic cooperation.

Despite varied challenges, the deep friendship between China and Venezuela – characterized by unity, cooperation and mutual support – remains unchanged. When faced with risks and difficulties, both countries have consistently stood by each other, supporting one another on issues concerning each other's core interests. Venezuela stands firmly with China on issues related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Xizang, echoing calls for justice. China strongly opposes the unilateral sanctions imposed by the U.S. on Venezuela, and supports Venezuela in upholding sovereignty, national dignity and social stability. China has also provided material aid and has shared developmental experience to help Venezuela address challenges related to the livelihood of the people. Over the years, both governments have engaged in practical cooperation in key areas such as infrastructure, technology, energy, health care, education and poverty reduction, striving to meet citizens' aspirations for a better life and ensuring social stability and general well-being. The friendship between China and Venezuela has proven robust in the face of adversity, thus cementing a truly ironclad bond.

Despite the changing circumstances, China and Venezuela remain steadfast in their united efforts to uphold international justice and promote development. Both countries – classified as developing nations and emerging economies – share a broad spectrum of common interests and similar positions on international affairs. Both sides are united by a common desire to promote peace, cooperation and development, aiming to build an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful new world that enjoys universal security and common prosperity.

Faced with changes unseen in a century and global developmental challenges, China and Venezuela continue to work together with a vision to build a community with a shared future for mankind to promote the implementation of three major global initiatives proposed by China, aim to establish a new type of international relations, practice genuine multilateralism, and jointly defend the international order, peace and stability. China and Venezuela consistently echo mutual calls for peaceful resolutions on international issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and call for a ceasefire in Gaza, positioning themselves as pivotal forces in the global quest for sustainable development, and the maintenance of world peace and stability.

The past 50 years have enriched the deep friendship between China and Venezuela, creating strong bonds between the peoples of the two countries and paving the way for a bright future of pragmatic cooperation. China and Venezuela share a solid foundation of mutual trust, robust cooperation mechanisms and highly complementary advantages. The state visit by President Maduro to China in 2023 witnessed the signing of over 30 agreements. These agreements mark the beginning of a new era of enhanced cooperation featuring higher standards, deeper engagement and broader fields. Currently, the two countries are engaged in close cooperation and exchanges at various levels, with steady progress in traditional sectors such as trade and infrastructure as well as in emerging industries like e-commerce, aerospace and aviation, and energy transition. It is believed that these collaborative efforts will yield increased benefits for the peoples of both countries and create more opportunities for social development.

Simon Bolivar, the liberator of South America and the founding father of Venezuela once said, "La amistad es mi pasión," which literally means "Friendship is my passion." We believe that the peoples of China and Venezuela, with half a century of sincere friendship as a solid foundation of relations and a powerful drive for action, will implement the important consensus reached by the heads of states of both countries. By continuing to move forward hand-in-hand with determination, China and Venezuela are sure to create greater splendor and brilliance over the next 50 years.

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