Chinese UN envoy calls for close attention to economic situation in Palestine

Wu Haitao

UNITED NATIONS, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Tuesday said that close attention should be given to improving the economic and humanitarian situation in Palestine.

Wu Haitao, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, told a Security Council meeting on the situation in Middle East, that China expresses once again its concern over the withholding of tax revenue collected on behalf of Palestine.

The Palestinian Authority is passing through a crucial financial crisis since the Israeli decision made in February to cut from the tax revenue dues that Israel collects from the Palestinian trade on behalf of the Palestinian Authority.

The Chinese envoy called upon the parties concerned to implement obligations under the international treaties, including that of the Paris Protocol, fully implement relevant Security Council resolutions, and swiftly and completely lift the Gaza blockade.

The Chinese envoy also urged the international community to enhance their support of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) with a view to improving the humanitarian conditions of Palestinian refugees.

Wu said that China will also provide support of the Palestinian people through bilateral channels, including through support to the assistant projects for the Palestinian refugees in the regional countries.