BEIJING, Feb. 18 -- China here on Tuesday expressed the belief that Venezuela's government and people have the ability to handle internal affairs, protect national stability and promote social development.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying voiced the belief at a daily press briefing, saying that China had noted reports of recent antigovernment protests in Venezuela.

Hua said the stability of Venezuela conforms to the fundamental interests of Venezuela's people, as well as regional peace and development in Latin America.

"Venezuela is not only an important country in Latin America, but also a friend and important cooperative partner to China," Hua said.

On Thursday, thousands of supporters of the ruling socialist party took to the streets to demand the attorney-general take action against antigovernment protesters who fueled the violence that killed three, injured 66, and left the Public Prosecutor's Office ransacked

Since last Wednesday, Venezuela has seen several anti-government demonstrations and violent conflicts, which left three dead and over 70 injured. The government and the opposition blamed each other for the bloodshed.