"This will not only serve the fundamental interests of all countries in the region, including Palestine and Israel, but also contribute to peace and stability in the region and the world at large," Zhu said in a message aimed at a New York conference marking the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People scheduled for Wednesday.

He added: "The Palestine issue is at the core of the Middle East question."

Zhu said he approved of Palestinian people's efforts to recover lost territory, return to their homeland and restore legitimate national rights and interests.

"We hold that the legitimate national rights and interests of the Palestinian people should be restored, and that the Palestinian people have the right to establish an independent state, and the sovereignty and security of all countries in the Middle East should be guaranteed.

"Only in this way can a comprehensive, just and lasting peace be realized in the Middle East."

Zhu also expressed grave concerns over the violent clashes between Israel and Palestinians since September.

"Such developments indicate that a comprehensive and just settlement of the Palestine issue is still faces major obstacles and that the efforts of the Palestinian people to fully restore their legitimate national rights and interests call for still greater support and assistance from all peace-loving people in the world," Zhu said.

He said the use of force would only lead to a further deterioration of the situation and political negotiations are the only way out.

"We strongly appeal to all parties concerned to return to the negotiating table and seek a peaceful solution."

Zhu also called on the international community, especially the UN, to play a "bigger and more active role" and pledged China's support for the Middle East peace process and its willingness to co-operate with other countries in this regard.

(Xinhua 11/29/2000)