Chinese Premier Meets Israeli President 　　China appreciates Israel's choice of peaceful dialog as a strategy for solving its disputes with Arab nations, said Premier Zhu Rongji in Beijing April 26. 　　While meeting with Israeli President Ezer Weizman yesterday, Zhu urged an end to procrastinating over the disputes in the Middle East as soon as possible, saying this is the hope of all peoples in the region, and is in the long-term interests of all in the Middle East, including Israel. 　　The meeting was held Monday afternoon at the Diaoyutai State Guest House. Zhu welcomed Weizman, who is visiting China for the first time as president. He said close contact between leaders will help deepen mutual understanding and friendship, and promote cooperation. 　　He praised Weizman for consistent efforts to develop relations with China. 　　China and Israel both cherish long histories, and have enjoyed successful cooperation in the fields of politics, economy, and science and technology, he said. 　　Bilateral trade has been developing fast in recent years, with the trade volume in 1998 rising 46 percent over that of 1997, he noted, adding that this shows strongly complementary economies and extensive cooperation. 　　Zhu said he believed that with increased exchanges between the two nations, Sino-Israeli friendship and cooperation will be more fruitful in all areas. 　　China is ready to build and develop a long-term, stable friendship, and cooperation for mutual benefit, he noted. 　　Weizman said Israel wants peace, though the road to peace will not be smooth. He said peace will be eventually reached after many difficulties are overcome. 　　Weizman arrived in Beijing Sunday afternoon for a seven-day state visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Jiang Zemin. 　　In the morning, presidents of the two countries met to discuss bilateral ties and other issues of common concern. 　　Weizman will also attend the opening ceremony of the '99 International Horticulture Exposition in Kunming. HomeNews 1999-04-27 Page1 Full Story in Chinese