BEIJING — Premier Li Keqiang on Sept 28 sent a message of condolence to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu over the passing of the country’s former President Shimon Peres.

On behalf of Chinese government, the Chinese people and himself, Premier Li expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former president, and extended his sympathies to his family and the Israeli people.

Premier Li said in the message that Peres was an elder statesman and active promoter of the Middle East peace process and enjoys a solid reputation internationally.

Peres has long sought to promote a friendly relationship between China and Israel and pushed forward cooperation between the two countries in a number of fields, Premier Li said.

The China-Israel relationship is currently riding high, the Premier said, adding that China is willing to work with Israel to maintain the sound development of bilateral ties and constantly deepen cooperation in various fields to benefit the two peoples.