Palestinian Leader Mahmoud Abbas Visits Beijing, China Ready to Facilitate Israeli-Palestinian Peace Talks

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Flashpoints:

• China's facilitation of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks during Mahmoud Abbas's visit to Beijing demonstrates its commitment to the region's affairs.

• This shows the increased Chinese willingness to challenge traditional U.S. influence in the Middle East.

• With strong bonds with Palestine and its active engagement in the Middle East, China seeks to contribute to finding a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Introduction:

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has arrived in Beijing for a four-day state visit. This would be marking his fifth official visit to China.

China has expressed its readiness to assist in facilitating Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, underscoring its commitment to the region's affairs and challenging traditional U.S. influence.

#FrontlineBreaking: #Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas just arrived at #Beijing Capital International Airport, commencing his four-day visit to #China. He was greeted at the airport by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Deng Li. #Chinarama #Palestine pic.twitter.com/6spqFzOU4c

— Frontline (@Frontlinestory) June 13, 2023

Details of Arrival and Meetings:

Mahmoud Abbas landed in Beijing on Tuesday morning, according to state-run broadcaster CGTN.

During his visit, he is expected to meet with China's President Xi Jinping.

He plans to exchange opinions on the latest developments in the Palestinian arena, regional issues, and international matters of mutual concern.

Abbas will also meet Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang in order to further enhance diplomatic ties between Palestine and China.

Sino-Palestine Friendship and Diplomatic Support:

Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin described Mahmoud Abbas as an "old and good friend of the Chinese people" and emphasized China's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause to restore their legitimate national rights.

China has consistently championed the just cause of the Palestinian people, strengthening its ties with Palestine.

#FrontlineBreaking: Chinese SC&FM @AmbQinGang meets with his #Palestinian counterpart Riyad al-Maliki in Beijing on Tuesday. The meeting comes as Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbass makes a state visit to #China from June 13 to 16. #Chinarama #ChinaPalestine #Palestine@pmofa pic.twitter.com/buCsSi9ONH

— Frontline (@Frontlinestory) June 13, 2023

China's Middle East Engagement:

Beijing has actively sought to strengthen its ties to the Middle East, exemplified by its role in brokering a rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran in March.

By challenging long-standing U.S. influence, China aims to establish itself as a key player in the region's affairs.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Saudi Arabia in December for the China-Arab States Summit and subsequent meeting with Abbas demonstrated China's commitment to working towards an early, just, and durable solution to the Palestinian issue.

Iran's Visit and Proposed Summit:

China has solidified its regional engagement by hosting Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi in February. This was the first visit by an Iranian leader in 30 years.

Additionally, Beijing has proposed an unprecedented summit involving Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council, which could potentially take place later this year.

These initiatives underline China's proactive approach to Middle East affairs and its aim to foster regional stability.

Strong Bonds with Palestine, “Friends closer than Brothers”:

Palestinian official Abbas Zaki, in an interview with Chinese state news agency Xinhua, expressed the deep friendship between China and Palestine.

He described is as;

"Friends closer than Brothers."

Zaki commended that China has increased its involvement in Middle East affairs.

The example can be taken from following the China-Arab States Summit.

He also highlighted the positive impact of China's engagement on the region.

U.S. Involvement and Stalled Peace Negotiations:

The United States has also sought to address the heightened Israeli-Palestinian tension.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to undermine the prospects for a Palestinian state.

However, peace negotiations between Israel and Palestine have been at a standstill since 2014, making international efforts crucial for reviving the peace process.