On March 16, 2012, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held talks with visiting Israeli Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Avigdor Lieberman in Beijing.

Yang said bilateral relations have developed consistently and pragmatic cooperation in all areas has achieved fruitful results since the two countries forged diplomatic ties 20 years ago, which has brought substantial benefits for both nations and their people. He said China is ready to work with Israel to jointly promote the greater development of bilateral friendly cooperation.

Lieberman said Israel values its friendship with China and feels satisfied with the current state of bilateral relations. Israel will make concerted efforts with China to boost bilateral friendly cooperation to a new height, he said.

Yang and Lieberman also exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern.