China’s position on the Palestine-Israel Issue : a historical perspective

Abstract EN

The Question of Palestine is the core of Middle East issues and the one of the root factors of peace in the Middle East.

From the historical perspective, China’s position on this issue has always been clear, consistent and convergent with the international community, which is supporting the Palestinian just cause.

But there are also some twists and turns between China on the one hand and Palestine and Israel on the other hand.

It can be divided into the following periods: Friendly historical relations between China and the Jewish nation; ProArab and Anti-Israel (1949-1979); Keep Balance between Arab and Israel (1979-2013); Active Participation of Palestine-Israel Issue under Belt & Road Initiative.

Although China’s position and recommendations on the Palestine-Israel issue are more easily accepted by both sides, the current Chinese Middle East policy is still trapped in the predicament of “morality” and “interest”.

On the one hand, China has to support Arab countries’ just cause, but it is impossible to give up its friendly relations with Israel on the other hand.

The Belt & Road Initiative will provide a great opportunity for China to actively engage in the hot issues in the Middle East.