Israeli President Moshe Katsav met in Jerusalem Tuesday with visiting Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing over Mideast peace and bilateral ties. 

During the meeting, Katsav said the Chinese people and the Jewish people had experienced many similar sufferings in the history, and now the two countries share common interests in many areas.

He said Israel attaches great importance to China's role in the international arena, expressing hope that the two countries can further strengthen dialogue and cooperation.

The president said he was deeply impressed by his visit to China in 2003, adding that as a friend of the Chinese people, he will continue to make every effort for the promotion of ties between Israel and China.

For his part, Li said Sino-Israeli ties have developed rapidly since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 1992, while expressing his appreciation for Katsav's efforts to advance bilateral cooperation.

Li said China is willing to make joint efforts with Israel to enhance mutual understanding.

On the Middle East situation, Katsav said Li's visit contributed to the peace process, adding Israel will solve problems through negotiations.

Li said that China is committed to safeguarding world peace and stability and will continue to help push forward the Mideast peace process.

Li also visited Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem on Tuesday following a meeting with members of the Knesset (parliament) Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

(Xinhua News Agency June 22, 2005)