China pledges $20 million in aid to Palestine

China's has pledged $20 billion in loans to the Middle east with 20 million dollars in aid going directly to the nation of Palestine. China's president Xi Jinping announced recently a plan to loan Arab states more than $23 billion for economic development saying that they are 'natural partners' of China. On Tuesday, the Chinese Government said it would provide $15 million in aid to Palestine. The announcement was made at the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum (CASCF) in Beijing. Riyad al-Maliki, the Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs said “It is a chance to reaffirm the Palestinian stance on the peace process.” pointing out that the China Palestinian relationship has grown in recent years.

Maliki had pointed out the significance of the CASCF, saying it is “extremely important” and actively promotes cooperation and coordination between China and the Arab world. The minister also said he hopes Palestine will play an important role in China's Belt and Road Initiative, becoming the hub which links Africa and Europe

China is the second largest trading partner of the Arab countries with 22 members of the Arab League havingestablished diplomatic ties.

Aid is coming at the right time for Palestinians who are in need of funds since the United States has cut aid to Palestine until they resume peace talks with Israel.

Most Palestinians have refused to endorse President Donald Trump and his approach to the conflict, having moved the US embassy to Jerusalem and all but granting its possession to the Jewish state. President Mahmoud Abbas, following Trump’s unilateral decision recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, decided to replace the United States as peace broker and moved close to Russia and China as potential new negotiators.