On August 24, 2001, Li Peng, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, met with Yasser Arafat, President of the State of Palestine and Chairman of the Palestinian National Authority, at the Great Hall of the People. The two sides held warm and friendly talks.

Li welcomed Arafat’s visit to China again, adding that frequent visits between the Chinese and Palestinian leaders have enhanced mutual understanding and friendship. Li pointed out that China’s stand on the Middle East issue is consistent. We always support the just cause of the Palestinian people. The three generations of Chinese leaders have been implementing this policy. We are indignant at the abuse of force by Israel in the Palestine autonomy region. We believe solving the Middle East issue through political negotiation is the only correct way. UN resolutions concerning the Middle East issue and the principle of “Land for Peace” are the basis of the Middle East Peace Process. Palestine and Israel should implement in real earnest the agreements and understanding reached between them. At present, the urgent task is that the two sides should reach a cease-fire as soon as possible. We believe that with the situation in the Middle East deteriorating, Palestinian leaders will continue to work unswervingly for the final success.

Arafat briefed Li on the latest development in the Israel-Palestine conflict. He said that the Chinese leaders and government have always sympathized with the just cause of the Palestinian people and support staunchly the Middle East Peace Process. The Palestinian people are profoundly and sincerely grateful and cherish very much the friendship with the Chinese people. They will never forget the strong support provided by China to the Palestinian people in their worst difficulties.