China supports reconciliation of Palestinian factions through dialogue: spokesman

China has always supported factions in Palestine in achieving internal reconciliation through consultation and dialogue, said a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman in Beijing on Friday.

Spokesman Wang Wenbin made the comments in response to a press query about the Hamas-Fatah meeting scheduled Friday in Beijing at the regular press briefing.

"China has always supported the Palestinian Authority in enhancing its authority and supported Palestinian factions in achieving internal reconciliation and strengthening internal unity through dialogue and consultation," Wang said. The internal division between Fatah and Hamas began in 2007 when Hamas forcibly took over the Gaza Strip from Fatah. Since then, the Palestinian territories have been split into a Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip and a Fatah-dominated West Bank. Over the past 17 years, the two rivals have reached several agreements and understandings.

The Palestinian Authority is the Fatah-controlled government body that comprises most major Palestinian factions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a welcome ceremony held by his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron at the Les Invalides in Paris on Monday.

Upon their arrival, President Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan were greeted by President Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron.

After the Chinese and French national anthems were played, Xi and Macron reviewed the French Republican Guard and Guard of Honor.

After the ceremony, Xi and Peng left for the Elysee Palace, escorted by a 148-member mounted squadron and the motorcycle squadron of the French Republican Guard.

Xi is on a state visit to France at the invitation of Macron.