Chinese President kicks off state visit to Tanzania

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 02-15-2009 08:59

Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in the Tanzanian capital Dar es Salaam late on Saturday for a two-day visit. His visit aims to cement economic and friendship ties started between the two countries over four decades ago. Hu earlier visited Saudi Arabia, Mali and Senegal. The week-long tour will also take him to Mauritius before he flies back home on Tuesday.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (L, front) is greeted by  Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete upon his arrival  at the airport in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Feb. 14, 2009.  Hu arrived here on Saturday night for a state visit to  Tanzania.(Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Tanzania is the fourth stop of President Hu's five-nation tour, which has been described as "a journey of friendship and cooperation."

The Chinese President was greeted by his Tanzanian counterpart Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete at the airport.

On his arrival, Hu said in a written statement bilateral relations have been developing in a sound and smooth way since diplomatic ties were established 45 years ago.