China and Venezuela, a True Model and Example of Mutual Respect

Recognizing the huge potential of Chinese tourism consumption, Venezuela is keen to attract more Chinese tourists.

A third stage in bilateral relations has begun with the constitutional term of President Nicolas Maduro. Missions in the new era include realizing the objective earlier stated – to develop and strengthen various areas of national development, among which are oil, petrochemicals, construction, infrastructure, agriculture, agribusiness, basic industries, telecommunications, tourism, and mining.

This is framed in a strategic plan for integral development over the next 10 years, which covers areas of bilateral cooperation in the creation of Special Development Zones and Special Economic Zones, and deepening proactive cooperation with China, taking into consideration the immense Venezuelan potential in this sector and the prospects of increased demand from the Asian country of raw materials and products.

Venezuela will further develop its industrial capacity, fostering joint ventures in various economic, commercial and agricultural sectors, and supporting projects in Venezuela involving Chinese companies. The goal is to consolidate a solid industrial sector that fulfills internal requirements and, at the same time, stimulate exports.

The plan also aims to promote comprehensive cooperation with China in tourism, with emphasis on popularizing the nation among Chinese travelers, offering them the chance to enjoy eco-tours and services rendered by well trained staff. To achieve this goal Venezuela will enhance its tourism infrastructure in order to position our country as one of the main tourist destinations for the Chinese population.

To borrow a quote from our Supreme Commander, Hugo Chavez, on this subject: “China and Venezuela are a true model and example of mutual respect, shared interest and complementation.”

The Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) has agreed to open a forum with China. And Venezuela stands ready to join efforts to advance the dialogue to materialize the cooperation between the two parties. This forum will be a venue for coordination of policies to take common positions on foreign policies, to build democratic international relations, and to defend the rights of developing countries to establish a fair and reasonable international order. It will also contribute to the combat against climate change and establishment of a new global financial framework through information technologies.

It is pertinent to remember that, during his recent visit to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that this year is a great opportunity to consolidate the China-CELAC forum. He added that Venezuela is playing an important role in Latin America and in the rest of the world, and that he foresees a bright future for bilateral relations.

It is very important for the Bolivarian government and the Venezuelan people to continue watering the tree of friendship, brotherhood and complementarity between the People Republic of China, our elder brother, and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

IVAN ANTONIO GUERRERO ZERPA is Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to China.