In a significant development, China and Palestine have agreed to establish a strategic partnership, as announced on Wednesday. The occasion marked the meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People.
President Xi Jinping expressed his optimism, stating that this milestone would build upon past accomplishments and pave the way for a promising future in China-Palestine relations. This visit by President Abbas marks his fifth official trip to China, and President Xi warmly welcomed his return. Notably, President Abbas is the first Arab head of state to be hosted by China this year, underscoring the robust ties between the two nations.
The China-Palestine relationship is built on a foundation of mutual friendship and partnership. This year commemorates the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. President Xi highlighted China’s early recognition of the Palestine Liberation Organization and the State of Palestine, emphasizing their long-standing support.
Both leaders pledged to enhance bilateral friendship and cooperation across various domains. In recent years, China-Palestine relations have experienced positive growth. In 2019, the two nations initiated negotiations on a free trade zone, and last December, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Belt and Road Initiative cooperation. The Chinese Foreign Ministry reports that bilateral trade amounted to $158 million last year, witnessing a 23.2 percent increase from the previous year.
President Xi assured President Abbas of China’s willingness to continue providing assistance within its capabilities to alleviate humanitarian challenges and contribute to the reconstruction efforts. To improve the well-being of the Palestinian people, China had previously committed to granting 50 million yuan (approximately $7.4 million) in 2016. Consequently, China has supported over 40 projects in Palestine, including the construction of the Palestinian Foreign Ministry building.
