Chinese State Counselor Tang Jiaxuan has ended his three-day visit to Israel and areas under Palestinian administration.

Speaking in Jerusalem, Tang Jiaxuan said China advocates the resumption of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians, and the restarting of the roadmap peace plan. China also supports the United Nations, especially its Security Council, to play a bigger role in helping Palestinian elections and economic reconstruction.

Tang Jiaxuan also noted that Israel's negotiations with Syria and Lebanon are part of the long-term peace process in the Middle East, and should therefore be resumed as early as possible.

Earlier, Tang Jiaxuan held talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom, and both sides agreed to push bilateral ties to a new high.

During the meeting, Tang Jiaxuan suggested that both countries maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, and develop economic and trade ties based upon mutual benefit and common development. The Chinese state counselor also stressed the need to enhance cultural, educational and non-governmental communication between the two countries.

(CRI.com December 30, 2004)