BEIJING, Aug.18 (Xinhuanet) -- The international community has recognized and welcomed President Hugo Chavez's victory in the Venezuelan referendum.

    United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has hailed the peaceful conduct of Venezuela's recent recall referendum on President Hugo Chavez's mandate.

    Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan says China believes Venezuela will make great achievements under the leadership of President Hugo Chavez.

    US State Department says the United States has accepted the preliminary results of Venezuela's recall referendum.

    In a phone conversation with Chavez, Spanish Prime Minister Rodriguez Zapatero invited him to visit Spain in autumn.

    Brazilian foreign minister Ceslo Amorim called on Chavez's supporters and opponents to continue resolving their differences through dialogue.

    The Chilean government announced that it recognized Hugo Chavez's victory.

    Chavez survived the referendum on whether he would remain in office after winning 58 percent of the votes.

    The results were confirmed by the Organization of American States and former US President Jimmy Carter.

    (CRIENGLISH.com)