On Saturday, November 23, 2024, Chinese Ambassador Zeng Jixin with his diplomatic staff, laid a wreath at the tomb of martyr President Yasser Arafat in Ramallah and then visited the Yasser Arafat Museum. They were welcomed by Dr. Ahmad Subah, Chairman of the Yasser Arafat Foundation, and Mohammad Hlaika, Director of the Museum.
Dr. Soboh highlighted the long-standing relationship between Yasser Arafat and China, recalling Arafat's first visit to China in the 1960s. He emphasized the importance of the Arafat complex (mosque, tomb, and museum) in preserving the Palestinian narrative. He also thanked China for its continuous support of Palestinian rights and its historical role in advocating for the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Ambassador Zeng Jixin expressed his condolences for Arafat’s passing and reaffirmed the strength of Chinese-Palestinian relations, emphasizing Arafat's role in shaping Palestinian identity and his significance as a symbol of freedom globally. He also commended China’s support for Palestine during challenging times.
The delegation toured the museum, where Hlaika shared significant events in the Palestinian cause over the last century and key moments in Arafat's life. Discussions were held regarding potential collaboration between the Yasser Arafat Museum and the Chinese Embassy, including organizing cultural activities to raise awareness of the Palestinian cause in China.
Palestinian-Chinese relations date back to 1965 when China was the first non-Arab country to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization, supporting Palestinian rights to liberation and return.