On the early morning of July 26th, an Israeli air raid on a United Nations peace keeping observer post in southern Lebanon killed a number of UN observers including one from China. We feel deeply shocked and strongly condemned the air raid. We feel deep sorrow for the victims and convey sincere condolences to their families.

China urges all parties concerned of the conflict, especially Israel, to take tangible measures to ensure the security of UN peacekeepers. We urge the countries concerned for immediate ceasefire and return to the track of negotiation and political settlement. China will work with the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to help restore peace and stability in Middle East at an early date.

On the morning of 26th, Foreign Ministry Assistant Minister ZhaiJun had an urgent appointment with Israeli Ambassador to China Dr. Yehoyada Haim and lodged a solemn representation to Israel. ZhaiJun said Chinese leaders were greatly shocked to learned with deep sorrow of the death of the Chinese UN peacekeeper. China strongly condemns the Israeli air raid on UN peacekeeper post and urges Israel to carry out thorough investigations, apologize to China and the victim's families and coordinate with China to deal with the aftermath. Yehoyada said that Israeli Government felt deep regret at this tragedy and would conduct thorough and in-depth investigations to find out the truth as early as possible.

Chinese Ambassador to UN Wang Guangya made an urgent call to UN Deputy Secretary General Mr. Brown and appealed UN to urge Israel to take all measures to ensure the security of all peacekeepers including those from China and conduct investigations to this event.