BEIJING -- China's Foreign Ministry said on Monday that Latin American countries are all sovereign and independent countries, and they have every right to independently choose their own cooperation partners.

The ministry's spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a daily press briefing in response to recent reports saying US President Donald Trump had claimed China and Russia can only purchase crude oil from Venezuela under US control in a meeting with executives of oil companies.

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"No matter how the situation changes, China will continue to deepen pragmatic cooperation and promote common development with Latin American countries, Venezuela included," she added. 

Mao also urged the United States to immediately cease its blockade, sanctions and coercion in any form against Cuba, and to do more to contribute to regional peace and stability.

China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security, Mao said when asked to comment on the recent threats US President Donald Trump made against Cuba.