BEIJING - Venezuela is a sovereign state that possesses full and permanent sovereignty over its natural resources and all economic activities within its territory, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

The legitimate rights and interests of other countries in Venezuela, including those of China, must be protected, spokesperson for the ministry Mao Ning stressed at a regular news briefing.

Mao said China strongly condemns the United States' military operation against Venezuela and the US demand for "America First" when it comes to Venezuela's dealing with its own oil resources.

READ MORE: China condemns US military action against Venezuela at UN Security Council

The US move, a typical act of bullying, seriously violates international law, infringes upon Venezuela's sovereignty, and undermines the rights of the Venezuelan people, she said.