US demand for exclusive oil partnership with Venezuela a 'typical bullying' act: China

The United States' demand that Venezuela form an “exclusive partnership” in the oil sector is a “typical bullying” act and a violation of the Latin American nation’s sovereignty as well as international law, China has said.

“Venezuela is a sovereign state and has full permanent sovereignty over its oil resources and economic activities,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters in Beijing.

Beijing’s statement came as ABC News reported that the Trump administration has told Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez it “must meet the White House's demands,” including that Caracas “must agree to partner exclusively with the US on oil production and favour America when selling heavy crude oil.”

The report added that Washington has demanded that Caracas "must kick out China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba and sever economic ties."

“The US’ blatant use of force against Venezuela and asking the country to favour America when handling its own oil resources is a typical bullying act, seriously violating international law, and Venezuela’s sovereignty,” said Mao, adding: “China condemns that.”

“Let me stress that China and other countries have legitimate rights in Venezuela, which must be protected,” said Mao.