CGTN: “The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian armed groups in the Gaza Strip has led to heavy casualties on both sides. What’s China’s comment?”

Mao Ning: “China is closely following the escalating conflict between Palestine and Israel. We’re deeply saddened by the civilian casualties and oppose and condemn acts that harm civilians. We oppose moves that escalate the conflict and destabilize the region and hope fighting will stop and peace will return soon. The international community needs to play an effective role to jointly help cool down the situation.

To end the cycle of conflict between Palestine and Israel, it is essential to restart the peace talks, implement the two-state solution and settle the Palestine question fully and properly through political means at an early date so as to take care of each party’s legitimate concerns. China will continue to work relentlessly with the international community towards this end.”

Al Jazeera: “Western media and politicians call the Palestinians’ actions acts of terrorism without acknowledging the fact that these actions were taken in response to Israel’s military attacks on the Palestinians, in particular, the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The Embassy of Israel in China said that it hopes China, Israel’s good friend, will condemn the acts of Palestine. How do you respond to this? Also, the US has announced that it is sending additional ammunition and military equipment to Israel. What’s your comment?”

Mao Ning: “On the Palestine-Israel conflict, China has always been on the side of equity and justice. As a friend to both Israel and Palestine, what we hope to see is the two countries living together in peace and enjoying security and growth together. The key to achieving that lies in the realization of the two-state solution and establishment of an independent State of Palestine.

On your second question, China believes that dialogue and negotiation is the fundamental way out. We call on all parties to stop the fighting immediately to avoid further escalation and deterioration of the situation.”