On April 23, 2009, Israeli President Shimon Peres met with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi in Jerusalem.

Peres expressed admiration for the enormous achievements that China has made in its economic development and also expressed appreciation to the important role China plays in the world arena. On the global financial crisis and economic recession, the Israeli president called for a global solution, adding that the Jewish state is ready to enhance cooperation with China to cope with the challenges. Peres said that he hopes the two countries will strengthen cooperation in agriculture, technology, environment protection and energy, and share technology and experience.

Yang said the mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Israel in recent years has gained momentum and personnel exchanges between the two countries in all areas and at various levels are increasing. Bilateral economic and trade cooperation has been developing rapidly and people-to-people contacts have also become closer. The China-Israel friendship is deeply rooted in the hearts of both peoples, he added. The top Chinese diplomat also said two countries maintain good coordination when dealing with regional and international affairs, and China appreciates Israel's understanding and support to China on the issues relating to Taiwan and Tibet. President Hu Jintao and President Peres reached a lot of important consensus on developing bilateral ties. Currently relevant departments of the two countries are working closely to push for progress and outcome of cooperation in areas concerned. He said he believes Sino-Israeli relations will develop smoothly with joint efforts of both sides.

The two sides also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East.