Full coverage: Xi Visits Ecuador, Peru and Chile, Attends APEC Summit

Full coverage: China’s Leaders

Chinese President Xi Jinping has begun a state visit to Ecuador. It's his third trip to Latin America since taking office in 2013.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has begun a state visit to Ecuador. It's his third trip to Latin America since taking office in 2013.

After Xi arrived in the capital Quito on Thursday, the two countries announced they will lift ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The visit to Ecuador is the first by a Chinese head-of-state, in the 36 years of diplomatic ties.

The week-long tour will also take him to Peru and Chile.