On June 5, 2014, President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People with head of the Arab states delegation attending the sixth ministerial meeting of China-Arab States Cooperation Forum (CASCF) in China.
Xi Jinping said that as the ancient Silk Road has linked us up since a long time ago, China and the Arab countries share a natural affinity and we are good friends, brothers and partners who hold mutual respect, recognition and trust towards each other. China cherishes its relations with the Arab countries and has always been promoting the development of the China-Arab relations from a strategic and long-term perspective. For Arab friends, we remain unwavering on four things. First, we are unwavering in the stance on supporting the Middle East peace process and maintaining the legitimate rights and interests of the Arab nations. Second, we are unwavering in the direction of sparing no efforts to advance political settlements and to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. Third, we are unwavering in the principle of supporting the Arab countries in independently exploring development path and helping the Arab countries develop. Fourth, we are unwavering in the value orientation of promoting dialogue among civilizations and advocating the new order of civilization. We are willing to join hands with the Arab countries on the long journey of achieving respective national rejuvenation.
Xi Jinping pointed out that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the foundation of the CASCF and the China-Arab relations now stand on a new starting point which carries on the past and opens a way for future. Holding the ministerial meeting at such a time is of great practical significance. Hope we will make joint efforts to run a successful meeting, build the Forum into a good one and open up a better future for the China-Arab relations.
Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah of Kuwait said that the Arab side highly appreciates China's consistent and just stance on Arab issues and has a strong and sincere desire for developing Arab-China strategic cooperative relations. The Arab side is willing to make joint efforts with the Chinese side to bring about a successful meeting, deepen the bilateral cooperation and realize common development.
Salaheddine Mezouar, Chairman of the meeting on the Arab side and Foreign Minister of Morocco said that Arab-China friendly relations enjoy a long history, a solid foundation and broad prospects. The Arab side is willing to work together with the Chinese side to develop the CASCF into a good one, focus on promoting the construction of the "One Belt One Road", make joint efforts to fight against terrorism and safeguard world and regional peace and stability.
State Councilor Yang Jiechi and others attended the meeting.