BEIJING, April 14 (Xinhua) -- Vice President Li Yuanchao on Friday reaffirmed that China supports the just cause of the Palestinian people to restore their national legitimate rights and interests.

While meeting with the visiting Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Malki at the Great Hall of the People, Li noted that China firmly supports the Middle East peace process and the just cause of the Palestinian people to restore their national legitimate rights and interests.

Li expressed his hope that Palestine and Israel will work together to resume their peace talks as early as possible and achieve results.

Hailing the traditional friendship between the two countries, Li said China and Palestine had expanded cooperation in various fields. "China is willing to, together with Palestine, continue supporting each other on issues concerning their core interests and major concerns."

Riyad al-Malki thanked China for its support for the just cause of the Palestinian people, hoped to deepen political mutual trust and cooperation and expected China will continue to play a bigger role in the Middle East issue.