Israel has gained Approved Destination Status (ADS) from Chinese government, said sources with China National Tourism Administration on Monday.

Nadav Eshcar, the spokesman of Israeli embassy in Beijing, said he hoped more and more Chinese tourists can visit his nation in the near future.

As a juncture of three continents, Israel boasts diverse natural scenery, including highlands, seashore and the lowest point on earth the Dead Sea. It also has some historic cities mentioned in the Bible.

Israel applied for ADS since 2001. Two nations still have to negotiate on details such as visa procedure before travel services can organize groups.

(Xinhua News Agency June 21, 2004)