Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has arrived in Beijing for a three-day state visit at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The arrival of an old friend, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas arrives in Beijing to sunny weather. He was welcomed at the airport by Chinese officials and diplomatic envoys from Arab countries.

Abbas is the first Middle East leader China's new leadership is meeting in the capital.

Li Guofu, Director, Center for Middle East Studies, CIIS, said, "One reason behind his visit is to maintain and strengthen the bilateral relations. Another thing is that Abbas expects China's contribution to the stalled peace process."

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Oslo Accord, yet the Middle East peace process has been stalled for quite some time, with the region witnessing significant changes.

But China, as always, stands for the peace process. China's special envoy to the Middle East Wu Sike has reiterated China's position on the Middle East.

Abbas will meet Chinese leaders on Monday to discuss political, economic and cultural affairs.

The President's visit comes simultaneously with the Israeli Prime Minister's official visit to China which starts on Monday. China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Hua Chunying, says China is willing to assist the two leaders if they wish to meet during their visit.