Chinese FM meets Israeli president

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog at the latter's request on the sidelines of the Seventh Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Thursday. Herzog said the Jewish and Chinese peoples have a long history of exchanges. The two peoples helped each other during the World Anti-Fascist War, forging a friendship that has become a memorable chapter in history. Israel firmly adheres to the one-China policy and is committed to advancing friendly relations with China, he said. Israel is willing to take the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries next year as an opportunity to expand exchanges and cooperation in areas such as science and technology, investment and people-to-people exchanges, he added. Herzog briefed Wang on Israel's views and position on the situation in the Middle East, saying that Israel seeks peace, not war, but faces threats and challenges to its national security that require a strong response. China has always been an important constructive force in promoting peace in the world and the region, Herzog said. Israel attaches importance to the relevant initiatives and proposals put forward by China, appreciates China's efforts to promote regional peace and stability, and stands ready to maintain communication with China, he added. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that during World War II, both the Chinese and Israeli peoples suffered greatly from the ravages of war and extended a helping hand to each other in times of hardship, giving rise to many moving stories. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations more than 30 years ago, bilateral relations have developed steadily, and practical cooperation has yielded positive results, Wang said, adding that the key lies in upholding mutual respect, treating each other as equals and pursuing mutually beneficial cooperation. Next year will mark the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Israel and the 10th anniversary of the establishment of their innovative comprehensive partnership, he noted. China stands ready to work with Israel to take the anniversaries as an opportunity to review experience, advance cooperation and consolidate the foundation of public support for bilateral relations, Wang said....