China urges U.S. to correct mistake on Venezuela-related sanctions

BEIJING (Reuters) - China urged the United States on Tuesday to correct its mistake and lift all illegal sanctions, after Washington imposed Venezuela-related sanctions targeting a Chinese firm.

China supports Venezuelan efforts to defend its sovereignty and is opposed to abusing international sanctions, foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told a regular briefing.

China will take necessary measures to safeguard companies rights and interests, Hua said.

The United States imposed sanctions on Monday on Chinese firm China National Electronics Import & Export Corporation (CEIEC), accusing it of supporting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's efforts to undermine democracy.

(Reporting by Gabriel Crossley; Editing by Kim Coghill)