Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Monday called for more peace efforts from Israel and Palestinians toward a two-state solution.

Wen made the appeal on the occasion of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

In a congratulatory message to this year's UN activities to observe this day, Wen said the Palestinian issue is at the core of the Middle East issue.

"China firmly supports the demands of Palestinian people for the restoration of their legitimate national rights and for the establishment of an independent state," said Wen.

The Middle East Peace process is at a crossroads. China hopes that Israel and Palestinians could guide the peace talks toward a desired direction and work for a two-state solution in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and the "land-for-peace" principle, he said.

An early resolution of the Palestinian issue in a comprehensive, just and permanent manner is not only beneficial to the Palestinian people, but also conducive to peace and stability in the whole Middle East region, said Wen.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, said Wen, China remains committed to the Mideast peace process and is willing to play a constructive role, together with the international community, in promoting peace, stability and development in the Middle East.

(Xinhua News Agency December 1, 2009)