Ramallah / PNN /               

China reiterated its full support for the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

This came during a meeting between Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, and the Arab ambassadors accredited to the People's Republic of China.

He affirmed that China would remain committed to its positions in support of justice and peace and considers the Palestinian issue to be the core of the Middle East issue. He emphasized its unwavering support for the just Palestinian position and its endeavor to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution,

He further voiced his rejection over using Gaza as a bargaining chip for political gains, considering it an integral part of the occupied Palestinian territory.

Zhao stated that Sino-Arab relations have witnessed historic development in recent years, under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and Arab leaders. He noted that the second Sino-Arab summit will be held in China next year, marking a pivotal milestone in the strategic partnership between the two sides.

For their part, the Arab ambassadors affirmed that friendly relations with China are solid and rooted in mutual trust, deepened through solidarity and cooperation in the face of crises.

They also expressed their deep appreciation for China's principled positions on Arab issues, particularly its historic support for the Palestinian cause. They also expressed their aspiration for a growing Chinese role on the international stage, while affirming the Arab states' commitment to supporting China in protecting its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and fundamental interests.

During the meeting, the Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the State of Palestine to the People's Republic of China, Shadi Abu Zarqa, emphasized the depth of the historical relations between Palestine and China, dating back to the visit of the late President Ahmed Shukeiri to Beijing in 1964. He praised China's active and ongoing role in supporting the Palestinian people and their just cause in international forums.

He also reviewed the difficult humanitarian conditions facing our people under occupation, in light of the ongoing Israeli violations, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, when Palestinians are forced to break their fast at Israeli military checkpoints.

He called for effective Chinese action in the Security Council to halt the aggression, lift the blockade, and support international efforts aimed at ending the occupation and enabling the State of Palestine to extend its sovereignty over all its territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem.

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation and enhancing political coordination between China and Arab countries, in a way that serves common interests and contributes to supporting stability, peace, and justice at the regional and international levels.