On 8 May, 2025, Chinese Ambassador Xiao Junzheng attended the Sea-Rail Intermodal Service Opening Ceremony and delivered a speech. Mayor of Haifa Mr. Yona Yahav, Israel’s incoming Ambassador to China Mr. Eli Belotsercovsky, Director of Israel Port Authority Mr. Zadok Radker, CEO of Israel Ports Company Mr. Pinkas Tzruya and other Israeli political and business figures attended the ceremony. Mr. Zhang Xingfu, Minister Counsellor and Head of Economic and Commercial Section, participated in the event.

Xiao said that the cooperation between Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) and Israel Railways on the Sea-Rail Intermodal Service reflects the confidence of both China and Israel in economic globalization and a fair and open trade environment. China is a firm supporter of the multilateral trading system. In the face of rising global economic uncertainties, China will unswervingly promote high-quality development and high-level opening up to the outside world, and continue to be the "stabilizing anchor" and "power source" of the world economy. China and Israel have a deep foundation for friendship and complementary advantages in mutually beneficial cooperation. With the joint efforts of both sides, the New Port of Haifa will surely achieve greater development and become an important hub connecting the Middle East and the world. We welcome Israeli friends from all sectors to cooperate with China to jointly build more high-quality projects like the New Port of Haifa and together promote greater achievements in China-Israel practical cooperation.

Yahav and Tzruya congratulated the official opening of the Sea-Rail Intermodal Service of the New Port of Haifa, expressed gratitude to the SIPG for its contribution to the development of Israel's port shipping industry, and looked forward to greater development of China-Israel economic and trade cooperation.

Xiao had cordial exchanges with Israeli guests and figures from the SIPG.