BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhuanet) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Tang
Jiaxuan held talks with Israeli Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign
Minister Shimon Peres Monday afternoon.
   The two sides exchanged in-depth views on bilateral relations
and other important and regional international issues of common
concern.
   Tang said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations
between the two countries 10 years ago, bilateral cooperative
relations had progressed rapidly thanks to the joint efforts of
the two sides. Healthy and steady beneficial cooperative relations
between the two countries were in accordance with basic interest
of the two peoples.
   He said that although bilateral relations had encountered
difficulties and setbacks, they would return to the track of
healthy development as long as lessons could be carefully learned.
   Peres said Israel valued the friendly relations with China and
hoped to enhance cooperation in all areas especially agriculture,
science and technology. He spoke highly of China's achievement in
economic construction and various frontiers.
   He introduced the latest development of the situation in Middle
East and expressed the hope of resuming negotiations with the
Palestinian Authority in order to resolve differences. Peres
appreciated China's efforts in resolving the Middle East issue and
hoped China could continue to play a more important role. 
   Tang reiterated China's principle and position on the Middle
East issue. He said the Middle East peace process was facing a
severe test and the regional situation was worrying. China
objected to any violent actions and held that "violence against
violence" could not solve the issue without instigating grudges
and making things more complicated.
   Tang pointed out that Israel invaded the Palestinian Authority
on a large scale and even destroyed Arafat's residence and
restricted his personal freedom. All these not only violated the
norms of the international law and agreements between Israel and
the Authority, but also harmed the international image of Israel.
   Tang stressed that a cease-fire, rebuilding mutual trust and
resuming peace was a practical and important task for Israeli and
Palestinian leaders. China was willing to continue its unremitting
efforts to realize Middle East peace process, together with the
international community. Enditem