Historical Chapters in the Chinese-Jews Friendship
Though separated by the vast continent, the Chinese and the Jews enjoy a deep bond of amity and goodwill for a long time.
As early as the 8th century, a few Jews entered China via the Silk Road. From then on, China has been a country where the Jews could live and work in peace and contentment. In the city of Kaifeng, the local Jewish community thrived for almost one thousand years.
In 1840s, Sephardi Jews, originally form Baghdad and Bombay, arrived in China as traders and then built up solid Jewish communities in coastal cities like Hong Kong and Shanghai. Later,in late 19th century, Ashkenazi Jews mainly from Russia traveled via Siberia to Northeast China. In the city of Harbin, Jews actively took part in local economy and cultural life. In 1930s and 1940s, the rampant Fascism and Militarism caused profound disasters upon the Chinese and Jewish peoples. During that darkest time, China extended a helping hand and received thousands of Jewish refugees with an open gate. Just in Shanghai, more than 20,000 Jews found home and shelter. No matter life was easy or hard, the Chinese and Jews lived harmoniously and established profound friendship.
On January 24th, 1992, China and Israel established diplomatic relations, starting a new page in the relations of our two countries and two peoples. Over the past 25 years,with joint efforts by both sides, our ancient wisdom has generated new inspirations and our sincere friendship has produced numerous fruits of cooperation.
Though time flies, we hope all above episodes will always remain fresh in the memory of the Chinese and Jewish people.