Qi Huaiyuan, President of Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), remarked warmly on Sino-Palestinian friendship in his speech on November 29, saying that China has always stood firmly with the Palestinian people and has consistently offered its support for their struggle and quest for peace.

A reception was given by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), marking this year's celebration of the Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

Buhe, vice-chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, was among those attending the event.

CPAFFC President Qi Huaiyuan remarked warmly on Sino- Palestinian friendship in his speech, saying that China has always stood firmly with the Palestinian people and has consistently offered its support for their struggle and quest for peace.

"As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China will continue to contribute its efforts to solving the Middle East peace problem along with the international community," he vowed.

He also noted that China feels "genuinely glad about the newest progress in the peace process, and believes that with sincere intentions and concrete actions for peace from both sides, and based on the principles enshrined in relevant UN resolutions, the Palestinian issue will come down to a "just and equitable solution. "

Palestinian Ambassador to China Moustapha Saphariny responded by congratulating China on the vast achievements of its reform and opening-up, and recalling the recent proceedings of the Middle East peace process.

"The power of China is the power of Palestine, the power of the Third World, the power of the developing countries, and the power of justice, peace, stability and development in the world," he said.

Also present at the reception were some 100 officials from relative departments of the Chinese government and Palestinian diplomatic envoys.