China on Wednesday voiced its hope to see an early resumption of the peace talks between Palestine and Israel, saying that the political talks are the only right way to solve the Middle East issue.

The statement came as Long Zhou, counselor of the Chinese Mission to the United Nations, was taking the floor at an open debate at the UN Security Council on the situation of the Middle East.

"It is our hope that all parties concerned will firm their faith in peace talks, display their political will and make more efforts to pave the way for the early resumption of the peace talks," he said.

The Israeli announcement to build more settlements in East Jerusalem runs counter to the joint peace efforts of the international community, he said, calling on Israel to be active in making efforts for the early resumption of the peace talks with Palestinians.

China is ready to join its hands with the international community in continuing the efforts to bring to the Middle East the comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, he added.