China backs UN Security Council emergency meeting over U.S. strike on Venezuela

China on Sunday voiced support for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council following a U.S. military strike on Venezuela, expressing grave concern over Washington's handling of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and calling for respect for international law.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a press conference that China supports the Security Council convening an emergency session on the U.S. military action against Venezuela and backs the Council in fulfilling its responsibilities.

The emergency meeting is expected to be held on Monday, Xinhua reported.

Lin said China is seriously concerned about the U.S.'s forced seizure of Maduro and his wife and transferring them out of Venezuela. He described the move as a clear violation of international law, basic norms governing international relations, and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

China urges the U.S. to ensure the personal safety of Maduro and his wife, immediately release them, cease efforts to subvert Venezuela's government, and resolve differences through dialogue and negotiations, according to the spokesperson.

China stands ready to work with the international community to firmly uphold the UN Charter, safeguard the moral bottom line of international relations, and defend international fairness and justice, Lin said.