Chinese President Xi Jinping met him during the welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. In a meeting afterwards, President Xi said China and Italy have been cooperating on equal footing for the last 47 years since diplomatic ties were established.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) holds a welcome ceremony for his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella before their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 22, 2017.(Xinhua/Li Xueren)

He welcomed Italy to join the Belt and Road Initiative, and urged cooperation in innovation. He also said China is wiling to work with Italy in global governance within multilateral frameworks like the United Nations and G20, and said China supports the integration of Europe.

Mattarella said his visit aims to deepen their comprehensive strategic relationship, and is willing to develop more effective trade and economic ties. He also said Italy is dedicated to strengthening the relationship between China and Europe.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) and his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella meet with Chinese and Italian representatives together after their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 22, 2017. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)