China's special envoy on Middle East Affairs on Thursday called for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine when meeting with Hamas movement chief Khaled Meshaal.

China has been deeply concerned and saddened over the Palestine-Israel conflict which has caused a large number of casualties and heavy property losses, as well as the worsening humanitarian situation there, Wu Sike said.

The Chinese envoy called on all parties concerned to actively respond to the ceasefire proposal and mediation efforts of the international community, saying the most pressing task now is to cease fire and stop violence.

Wu stressed that China is committed to safeguarding peace and stability in the Middle East, as well as actively promoting peace talks.

China is ready to do anything that could help facilitate a ceasefire, and is willing to contact anyone who might help broker a truce, said Wu, adding that China will continue to provide help, within its own capability, to the Palestinian people.

Israel's air and ground offensive on the Gaza Strip has killed 797 Palestinians and injuring more than 5,000 others since the eruption of violence on July 8.

Meshaal said that Hamas appreciated China's stance of firmly supporting the just cause of the Palestinian people, expressing gratitude for the great efforts China has made in promoting a ceasefire between Palestine and Israel and mitigating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

He added that Hamas hopes a ceasefire could be achieved as soon as possible under the precondition of lifting the blockade of Gaza and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of the Palestinians.

As part of an international mediation effort, Wu is on a regional tour that includes Palestine, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and Qatar. Endi

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