In a significant display of diplomatic and developmental support during one of the most challenging periods in Palestinian history, China has completed two major infrastructure projects in the West Bank city of Ramallah, reinforcing Beijing's commitment to Palestinian development and self-determination.
According to Xinhua, Palestinian and Chinese officials gathered on Wednesday to mark the completion of the China-Palestine Friendship Square and the extension of Beijing Road. The ceremony, held in Ramallah, saw Zeng Jixin, head of the Chinese office in Palestine, and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa jointly unveil plaques commemorating the newly completed projects.
The investment comes at a particularly sensitive juncture for the Palestinian territories, as the region continues to navigate ongoing political uncertainty and humanitarian challenges. China's decision to press forward with infrastructure development signals its sustained engagement with Palestinian nation-building efforts, even as international attention remains focused on the broader regional crisis.
Speaking at the ceremony, Zeng emphasized that the projects represent "a significant measure in implementing the consensus reached by the leaders of the two nations, as well as a vivid example of leveraging Chinese modernization to bolster Palestine's development."
The expanded Beijing Road, now stretching over 11 kilometers, connects a network of 14 roads linking central Ramallah with the Al-Jadwal area. Zeng described the roadway as "a road of convenience for people's livelihoods, a road of friendship connecting hearts, and a road leading to the future."
Prime Minister Mustafa spoke highly of the enduring friendship between the two peoples, expressing sincere gratitude for China's timely assistance. "The China-Palestine relationship goes back for many decades. China has always supported the Palestinian people, their struggle for independence, and also their development of infrastructure and other facilities in the different sectors," Mustafa told Xinhua following the ceremony.
"This is an opportunity to thank the leadership and the people of China for their continuing support for our people and their struggle for independence. So this is a great opportunity to say: Thank you, China," he added.
The tangible impact of the infrastructure improvements has already resonated with local residents. Bilal Mansour, a driver using the newly expanded roadway, recalled that the area had once been "a barren hillside surrounded by rubble and dust."
"China's assistance has changed our lives," Mansour said. "Driving from Birzeit to the city center used to take half an hour. Now it takes just over ten minutes."
The first section of Beijing Road opened to traffic in September 2020, with construction on the extension commencing in September 2024. The accelerated completion of these projects underscores China's practical approach to supporting Palestinian development through concrete investments rather than solely diplomatic statements.
Photo: Xinhua