Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Israeli Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Avigdor Lieberman in Beijing, capital of China, March 16, 2012. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)
Vice President Xi Jinping on Friday called for closer exchanges and cooperation with Israel, as well as "comprehensive and long-term" peace between Israel and Arabic countries.
During a meeting with visiting Israeli Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Avigdor Lieberman, Xi hailed the progress of China-Israel relations since diplomatic ties were forged in 1992.
He asked both sides to deepen political trust and boost friendly exchanges in order to further bilateral ties.
Xi said China has always strived for a comprehensive, fair and reasonable solution to conflicts in the Middle East.
China believes Israel, Palestine and other Arabic countries should settle disputes and achieve reconciliation via political discussions, he said.
Xi highlighted existing principles and agreements as a foundation for the discussions, including United Nations resolutions, the "Land-for-Peace" principle, the Arab Peace Initiative and the "roadmap for peace" outlined in a 2002 speech by former U.S. President George W. Bush.
When discussing the state of Israel-China ties, Lieberman said the Jewish and Chinese people share a "traditional friendship."
Israel attaches great importance to its relations with China and will work to promote bilateral ties, he said, adding that Israel hopes to realize peaceful co-existence with Arabic countries.
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