Beijing held a reception yesterday to mark the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people, with diplomats urging the international community to step up efforts to restart the Middle East peace process.

Addressing the gathering, Chen Haosu, president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, said China would continue its constructive role of promoting peace in the region.

He said China strongly condemns Israel's military actions, which have caused heavy casualties to innocent Palestinian civilians. China is also concerned with the human rights situation in occupied Palestinian territory, he said.

"We call on the global community to enhance diplomatic efforts to ease the tension in the region and end the Palestine-Israel conflict as soon as possible," Chen said.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu reiterated China's position on the Palestinian issue at a regular press briefing ahead of the commemorative day, saying the Palestine-Israel conflict is at the heart of the Middle East's instability and political negotiations are the only solution.

"The relevant UN resolutions and the principle of "land for peace" are important foundations for the talks aimed at establishing an independent Palestinian state that can peacefully co-exist with Israel," said Jiang.

Diab N M Allough, Palestinian ambassador to China, expressed his appreciation of and respect for the Chinese people for their support for the Palestinians at yesterday's reception.

He said the Palestinian Government welcomes the principle of "land for peace" and a legitimate international resolution to the conflict. He also urged the UN and nations around the world to help find a just and comprehensive peace.

Human rights analysts expressed concern for civilians caught up in the conflict, saying political disputes should not be solved by terrorism.

Source: China Daily