China has always supported the just cause of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state and has made unremitting efforts to promote a peaceful and just solution to the Palestinian question. Xi's proposal not only summarizes what has been China's consistent stance, it also introduces new elements that take into account the development of the situation in the Middle East.

The Chinese side stressed that the peoples of Israel and other Middle East countries should have equal rights to subsistence and development, and only by achieving a just and comprehensive peace can long-term stability in the region be realized.

China has used every opportunity to help build greater trust, so that peace talks can begin as soon as possible and make substantive progress. It always encourages the two sides to learn from history, base themselves on reality and take a negotiated peace as a strategic choice. Revenging wrong with wrong will only deepen hatred, while turning swords into ploughshares can lead to coexistence in peace.

The realization of peaceful coexistence between Israel and all Arab countries is the final goal and common expectation of the international community.

Promoting bilateral cooperation was also an important feature of the dual visits. China and Palestine signed agreements to strengthen cultural and educational cooperation, as well as economic and trade ties, and they will explore ways to encourage capable Chinese enterprises to invest in the West Bank. The Palestinian side is willing to provide a variety of facilities to achieve win-win results. These have further enriched China-Palestine friendly and cooperative relations.

China's relationship with Israel has grown considerably since the establishment of diplomatic relations, thanks to the efforts of both countries. China is Israel's third-largest trading partner. While upholding equality and mutual trust, the two sides held in-depth discussions on how to tap the potential of their complementary strengths and deepen pragmatic cooperation. They will increase cooperation in science and technology, water conservation, clean energy and other fields and plan to set up a special coordinating body.

Both Abbas and Netanyahu have expressed satisfaction with the results of their China visits and said they appreciate and welcome China playing a greater role in promoting the Middle East peace process. Both leaders also expressed the hope that peace talks will resume as soon as possible.

China is engaging in communication and coordination with all parties to try and inject the Middle East peace process with positive energy.

The author is China's Special Envoy to the Middle East.

Related readings:

China plays greater role in Middle East

Xi calls for Middle East talks

China playing bigger role in Middle East

China calls for action on lasting peace in Middle East