The meeting took place days after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil. During their subsequent phone call, he promised Venezuela the full backing of China. Tensions between the capitals of Venezuela and the U.S. are rising rapidly. Both nations are working under a tight corkscrew of diplomatic hurdles.
The request came following Wang Yi’s meeting with Gil in Beijing last May. At that meeting, they addressed some of their countries’ most pressing problems. Their latest discussion is incredibly timely. Second, this campaign highlights the increasing fears regarding the geopolitical climate, particularly the crisis between Venezuela and the US.
Wang Yi voiced China’s opposition to what he termed “bullying” tactics employed by foreign powers, a clear reference to the United States’ stance on Venezuela. Second, the Chinese government has chosen to actively support a brutal and authoritarian Venezuelan regime. It advocates for Venezuela’s sovereignty and national independence against what it sees as encroaching foreign interference. This assistance arrives at a time when Venezuela’s economic crisis and political unrest are worsening, further deepening the country’s dependence on foreign alliances.
A recent meeting between China’s top diplomat Wang Yi and Venezuelan foreign minister Yvan Gil showcases the deepening links between the two countries. They serve to demonstrate Beijing’s strategic intent for the region. Despite the tense situation, the oil market remains on edge for further disruptions. This fear is particularly acute given Venezuela’s enormous oil wealth.
Beyond their talks, both countries have clearly been working hard to follow up with steps to strengthen economic ties. Significantly, China has made a number of big bets on Venezuelan oil projects, deepening its economic engagement in the region. If the partnership does not falter, it will further develop as both countries steadfastly pursue shared interest in their win-win relationship against an increasingly uncertain world.