China is now one of the key players in the world, and Israel looks forward to further enhancing its ties with the east Asian country, a senior member of Israel's Knesset (parliament) said Thursday in Jerusalem.

Citing China's growing economic dimension and political influence, Tzachi Hanegbi, chairman of Israel's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, told Xinhua in an exclusive interview in the Knesset that China now plays an important role in the international community.

"We look forward to being a friend of China, and establishing closer and more intimate relationship with China," he said, noting that China is an "amazing phenomenon."

According to the committee chairman, the bilateral ties are on good track for many years, especially in the last several years.

Cooperation between Israel and China in various fields, such as politics, trade, tourism and culture, is constantly on a path of improving and advancing, added Hanegbi.

Meanwhile, the "Experience China in Israel" event, which began on Monday and will conclude at the end of this month, is ongoing in the Jewish state to provide an opportunity for people to exchange cultural values.

Jointly held by the State Council Information Office of China and Israeli Foreign Ministry, the event is dedicated to the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 17th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Israel.

Hanegbi lauded the great achievements made by China in different fields over the past 60 years, terming it "amazing."

"At the request of the Chinese side, I will pay a visit to China next week and hold talks with Chinese officials over issues of mutual concern," said Hanegbi, adding that he visited China in 2006 and had good meetings with Chinese officials.