Chinese State Councillor Tang Jiaxuan (L) gestures during a joint press conference with Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom in Jerusalem, Dec. 29, 2004. The press conference was held following their meeting in Jerusalem Dec. 29. (Xinhua Photo)

Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan has presented a four-point proposal aimed at achieving peace in the Middle East, to Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom.

The proposal also pushes for greater international involvement in mediating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Tang Jiaxuan said on Wednesday that the proposal includes the resumption of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians, restarting the roadmap peace plan, and establishing an independent Palestinian state.

He commented that the roadmap peace plan, which envisions a full Palestinian state by 2005, is a practical and feasible solution to the problems between Israel and the Palestinians.

Tang's proposal also seeks to help achieve a comprehensive and lasting peace across the Middle East. It advocates that Israel's relations with Syria and Lebanon are important components of the regional peace process.

The proposal also encourages greater international efforts to bring peace to the region. To this end, Tang Jiaxuan noted that China supports the United Nations in playing a greater role in Mideast peace-making.

Tang, who was on the last day of his tour of the Middle East, also called on all parties involved to put an end to violence, ensure a free and smooth Palestinian election, and improve the humanitarian situation in the region. Enditem