The Middle East, like any other regions in the world, should not be subjected to the threat of nuclear weapons. Establishing a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction would contribute to preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, safeguarding the authority and effectiveness of the international non-proliferation regime, and providing an important institutional guarantee for enduring peace and stability in the Middle East. The current situation in the Middle East has heightened the concerns of the international community and regional countries over the Israeli nuclear issue. Israeli nuclear issue should be given greater attention within the framework of NPT and IAEA, where serious discussions should be held.

China welcomes the IAEA Board of Governors' implementation of the IAEA General Conference resolution, by allowing Palestine to exercise its legitimate rights and participate in the work of the Board. China actively participates in the "Group Friends of Palestine" activities in Vienna and highly commends the positive communication between the IAEA Secretariat and the "Group Friends" regarding technical assistance to Palestine. We hope these efforts will soon benefit the Palestinian people.