Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has just arrived in Beijing. This is a state visit at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Our Feng Yilei has more.

FENG YILEI Beijing "I'm now at Beijing's Capital Airport where the President of the State of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas has just landed, kicking off his four day state visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"President Abbas has visited China several times and was referred to as 'an old and good friend of the Chinese people' by Foreign Ministry spokesman ahead of his visit. He is also the first Arab head of state to be received by China this year.

"This year marks the 35th anniversary of China-Palestine relations. The ties between the two countries have seen significant growth with stronger political mutual trust and deeper friendship between the two peoples. And the Palestinian president's visit comes as a further testament to the strong bilateral relationship.

"In the coming days, The discussions between both sides will likely revolve around ways to deepen the friendly relations between China and Palestine. An expert told me that there is likely to be talks on potential people-to-people projects, after the Chinese and Palestinian governments signed a memorandum of understanding on Belt and Road Cooperation last year.

"Notably, both sides are also expected to explore ways for advancing the peace process between Palestine and Israel. As we await their upcoming meetings, it is important to note that China has been a long-standing supporter of the Palestinian cause.

"President Abbas's visit to China follows President Xi's visit to Saudi Arabia last year, where he met with Abbas and pledged to work towards an early, just, and durable solution to the Palestinian issue.

"China has also expressed its willingness to aid in the negotiation process, with Foreign Minister Qin Gang in April telling his Israeli and Palestinian counterparts that Beijing was ready to help.

"China was among the first countries to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization and the State of Palestine.

"China has also consistently supported the Palestinian people's just cause of restoring their legitimate national rights. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China remains committed to working with the international community to find a comprehensive and just solution to the Palestinian issue. President Xi Jinping has consistently sent congratulatory messages to the United Nations' annual observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

"China's commitment to promoting peace and stability as a mediator between Israel and Palestine demonstrate that this visit holds significant importance for both countries and the region."