Chinese president arrives in Riyadh at start of "trip of friendship, cooperation"

Source: Xinhua | 02-11-2009 08:11

RIYADH, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in Riyadh on Tuesday at the start of his "trip of friendship and cooperation" with Saudi Arabia and Africa.

Visiting Chinese President Hu Jintao (L front) and Saudi  Arabian King Abdullah bin Abdul-Aziz (R front) attend a  welcoming ceremony upon Hu's arrival at the airport in  Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 10, 2009. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

"With the joint efforts, I am convinced that the visit will be a complete success and the China-Saudi Arabia strategic friendship will be further developed," Hu said in a written statement on arrival at Riyadh Air Base.

Hu was greeted by Saudi Arabian King Abdullah bin Abdul-Aziz ina welcoming ceremony at the airport.

During his two-day visit, Hu will hold talks with King Abdullah, to exchange views on international and regional issues of common concern.

Hu will also meet with Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Abdul Rahman Al-Attiya to discuss cooperation between China and GCC member countries.