Beijing: 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.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Liu Jianchao affirmed that China will remain committed to its positions in support of justice and peace, considering the Palestinian issue to be the core of the Middle East issue. He emphasized China's unwavering support for the just Palestinian position and its endeavor to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution. Liu also voiced his rejection of using Gaza as a bargaining chip for political gains, considering it an integral part of the occupied Palestinian territory.
Zhao highlighted the historic development of Sino-Arab relations in recent years, guided strategically by President Xi Jinping and Arab leaders. He announced that the second Sino-Arab summit will be held in China next year, marking a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two sides.
The Arab ambassadors, in turn, affirmed the solidity of friendly relations with China, rooted in mutual trust and strengthened through solidarity and cooperation during crises. They expressed deep appreciation for China's principled positions on Arab issues, particularly its historic support for the Palestinian cause. The ambassadors also conveyed their aspiration for an increased Chinese role on the international stage, while affirming their commitment to supporting China in protecting its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and fundamental interests.
During the meeting, Shadi Abu Zarqa, Charg© d'Affaires of the Embassy of the State of Palestine to China, 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 role in supporting the Palestinian people and their cause in international forums and reviewed the difficult humanitarian conditions facing Palestinians under occupation, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
Abu Zarqa called for effective Chinese action in the Security Council to halt 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 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 to support stability, peace, and justice regionally and internationally.