China has taken note of reports that the United States and Venezuela recently reached an oil cooperation deal involving Chinese companies' business in the country, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.

Asked about the reports at a regular news briefing, spokesman for the ministry Guo Jiakun said economic and trade cooperation between countries should follow the principles of equality, mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.

China-Venezuela cooperation is protected by international law and the laws of both countries, Guo said, adding that China's legitimate rights and interests in Venezuela must be guaranteed.