Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Monday sent a congratulatory message to the Special Commemorative Meeting for the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in New York.

"I would like to extend, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, my warmest congratulations to the special commemorative meeting of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People," Wen said in the message.

He also expressed his deep condolences over the recent passing away of Palestinian President Yasser Arafat, and his heartfelt sympathy to the Palestinian National Authority.

"His death is a loss not only to the Palestinian people and the peace-loving people, in the Middle East, but also to the Chinese people who found him a great friend," he said.

The Chinese premier stressed the question of Palestine is at the core of the Middle East issue.

"Solution will be found only by political negotiation. Relevant UN resolutions and the 'land for peace' principle constitute the important political foundation for the Middle East talks," he said.

"The restoration of the Palestinian people's legitimate rights, including the right to statehood, should be the primary objective of the efforts to resolve the Middle East issue," he added.

The Chinese premier reiterated China stands opposed to violence in any form, and the sovereignty and security of all countries in the region should be protected.

He urged the international community to help Israel and Palestine end violence and resume talks at an early date so as to rebuild mutual trust and implement the roadmap plan.

(Xinhua News Agency November 30, 2004)