Chinese FM Calls for Restraint in Middle East

China is deeply worried about the tension in the Middle East and calls for restraint from the parties concerned to prevent an escalation of the Israel-Palestineconflict, says Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan.

China strongly condemns recent explosions in Jerusalem and Haifa, which increased tension in the Middle East, Tang said here Tuesday while meeting with visiting Canadian Deputy Foreign Minister Gaetan Lavertu.

China also condemns the airstrikes by the Israeli helicopter gunships in Gaza, particularly the missile attacks on the official residence of the Palestinian President Yasser Arafat, Tang said.

"We are deeply worried about the possible escalation of the conflict between Israel and Palestine in the wake of the episodes," he said.

Tang called upon parties concerned in the region to have restraint in order to prevent the situation from deteriorating, and to take effective measures to end all violence.

"The two parties should cooperate with the international community and resume Israel-Palestine talks to seek peaceful resolutions for their present problems," he said.

(Xinhua News Agency December 4, 2001)