Vice-Premier Liu Yandong has sent a message of condolences to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the passing of Shimon Peres, former president of Israel.

In the message dated on Sept 28, Liu expressed deep condolences at the passing of Peres and extended her sincere sympathies to the families of the former Israeli leader.

Peres, an old friend of the Chinese people, has long made important contributions to boosting China-Israel friendly relations and the cause of peace in the Middle East, she said.

China is willing to make concerted efforts with Israel to continuously push forward the development of the two countries’ innovation partnership for the benefit of the two peoples, Liu added.

Peres passed away at the age of 93 on the early morning of Sept 28 after suffering a major stroke more than two weeks ago.