President Hu Jintao arrives in Croatia for state visit

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President Hu Jintao has arrived in Croatia the first time a Chinese head of state is paying a visit to the country in nearly two decades.

On his arrival in the capital Zagreb, Hu Jintao said the Chinese and Croatian peoples have maintained a deep friendship since the two countries established diplomatic ties 17 years ago.

He hailed the rapid growth of bilateral ties and pledged to deepen cooperation. Hu Jintao is scheduled to hold talks with Croatian President Stjepan Mesi during the visit.

The two countries are expected to sign several cooperation deals in the business, health-care and aviation sectors.

Hu Jintao also said he is confident that his visit will enhance mutual trust and promote cooperation. Croatia is the last leg of his three-nation tour, which has already taken him to Russia and Slovakia.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (2nd R) arrives at Zagreb, capital of Croatia, June 19, 2009, as he is welcomed by Croatian President Stjepan Mesic (1st R). Hu arrived in Zagreb Friday for a state visit to strengthen the comprehensive cooperative partnership between the two nations.(Xinhua Photo)