President Hu Jintao said yesterday that China would continue to play a constructive role in the Middle East peace process.

"China will work with the international community and take a constructive approach to solving the Middle East issue in an all-round, impartial, long-term manner," said Hu in a meeting with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.

Hu urged the parties concerned to make concerted efforts for an early solution to the Middle East issue based on relevant UN resolutions and the principle of "land-for-peace".

The early resolution of the Middle East issue is the common aspiration of the people in the region and the international community, Hu added.

Olmert expressed his appreciation for China's fair stance in promoting the peace process, and hoped China continues to play a role to achieve the goal.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Israel; and Hu and Olmert spoke positively of the development of bilateral relations.

Hu said he hopes the two countries could further build on their relations following cooperation in such fields as trade, technology, agriculture, culture and education.

Olmert echoed Hu's views, saying his country is willing to strengthen relations with China and cooperate in trade and economy, technology, research and development, information, agriculture, irrigation and culture.

Xinhua

(China Daily 01/12/2007 page2)