China to continue to defend Venezuela's sovereignty: Xi Jinping

ISTANBUL

China's President Xi Jinping said Friday that China will continue to support Venezuela in protecting its national sovereignty and "social stability,” according to a Chinese government statement.

Xi met Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Moscow as they visited Russia for the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Victory Day against Nazi Germany.

Xi expressed a willingness to work jointly to enhance cooperation.

In turn, Maduro said Venezuela hopes to strengthen cooperation in trade, energy, agriculture and science and technology, among others.

Xi discusses enhancing ties with Serbian president

Xi expressed China’s readiness to "deepen strategic communication, increase mutual support, and strengthen cooperation in trade and investment with Serbia," with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic.

China is willing to continue to support the construction and operation of relevant projects, Xi added.

Vucic expressed Serbia’s "firm commitment" to the one-China principle and belief that Taiwan is "an inalienable part of" China.

Cuban, Chinese presidents urge strengthened cooperation

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and Xi discussed strengthening cooperation in several areas such as international affairs.

Xi expressed China's "firm support" for Cuba in defending its national sovereignty, "opposing external interference and blockade, and supporting Cuba's economic and social development."

Diaz-Canel said Havana is grateful to Beijing for its "long-term strong support for Cuba's economic and social development."

Diaz-Canel also reiterated his support for the one-China policy.

China wants 'steady' development of Beijing-Europe relations with Slovakia

Xi urged a "steady" and "long-term" development of China-Europe relations and expressed hope that Slovakia would play an active role in the development during his meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Fico stated support for the one-China policy and appreciated China's stance and role on issues such as Ukraine and the Middle East.