Six Chinese observers were in the West Bank town of Ramallah to observe the Palestinian presidential election. They were joined by six other Chinese embassy officials in Israel and the Palestinian territory. It's the largest ever group of Chinese observers to monitor elections in another country.

The 12 member Chinese observer group was requested by the Palestinian authority last November.

After witnessing the voting in Ramallah, the leader of the Chinese team, ambassador Yao Kuangyi, said China's participation in monitoring Sunday's general elections reflected the importance China places on the process.

"Our main purpose is to show the Chinese government and people's support to the Palestinians, the importance we attach to the election and the deep friendship between China and the Palestinians."

Hanan Naser, chairman of the Palestinian Central Election Committee welcomed the Chinese team's arrival.

Due to the significance the Palestinian elections have for the future of peace in the Middle East after the death of Yasser Arafat, the election has drawn wide international attention.

During a meeting with Yao Kuangyi, he said that purpose of inviting international observers was not only to guarantee a fair and free election, but also to prevent any attempts at hindrance of the process by the Israeli government.

Yao Kuangyi said they are working in coordination with observers from other countries.

He says they went to polling stations in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as east Jerusalem, to watch the voting process and evaluate the election.

"The election is not only important to the Palestinians, but also important to the Middle East peace process."

More than 800 international observers, including former US President Jimmy Carter and former French Prime Minister Michel Rocard were in attendance.

The European Union has sent 350 observers, the highest number from any region.

(CRI.com January 10, 2005)