BEIJING, May 20 (INP): At the recent UNSC open debate on Palestine-Israel conflict, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi put forward important proposals on easing tensions, which were warmly echoed by the international community. 

This was stated here by a spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Zhao Lijian at a press conference.  

Zhao Lijian said, his country wonders what the US means by "quiet, but very intensive diplomacy" and what difference that makes. What we see is the continuous escalation of Palestine-Israel conflict and the tragedy of the civilians including women and children; what we hear is the call and cry for peace from the ruins and chaos of war. 

He added, “ Arab and Islamic states have commended China for adhering to international rules and justice and fairness, believing that China's position and proposition have shown China's responsibility as a major country and its adherence to justice on the Palestinian question, and struck a chord with the people of these countries. 

History is an impartial recorder. We hope the US will match its words with deeds, truly come back to multilateralism, shoulder its due responsibility as a major country and support the Security Council in playing a due role in easing the situation, rebuilding trust and advancing political settlement. 

When asked as a permanent member of the Security Council, will China consider starting a new institution or mechanism to resolve the Palestine-Israel issue?  

The spokesperson replied, “The Middle East peace process is always on our mind. China always upholds equity and justice and supports all efforts conducive to easing tensions. The first special envoy named by the Chinese government is for the Middle East issue.  

China has all along been in close communication with relevant parties in the region and beyond to actively support and advance the Middle East peace process. Since assuming the rotating presidency of the Security Council, China has made addressing the tensions in the Middle East a top priority and convened several rounds of consultations on the Palestinian question at the Security Council. Just the other day, China put forward important proposals on deescalating the situation at a Security Council open debate on the Palestine-Israel conflict. The proposals, consistent with the mainstream international opinion, were well-received in the international community. 

I would like to stress that with regard to the current tensions between Palestine and Israel, international support is a due obligation and the two-state solution is the fundamental way forward. The Security Council must take strong actions and reiterate its firm support for the two-state solution to bring down the temperature as soon as possible. All parties should assume due responsibilities and adopt a just position to support the Council's role in easing the situation, rebuilding trust and advancing political settlement. 

China will strengthen efforts to promote peace talks, make sure the Council fulfills its mandate and plays its role and contribute to the comprehensive, just and durable settlement of the Palestinian question.” 

INP/JAVED