Both countries were at a crucial stage of economic development, Hu said, adding to cement bilateral trade cooperation meets the fundamental interests of the two peoples and helps the economic and social development.

"We are ready to join hands with Sri Lanka to step up mutual-beneficial cooperation in various areas in a bid to benefit our peoples."

Rajapakse expressed appreciation for China's support for his country's economic and social development, stressing Sri Lanka was willing to further expand the win-win cooperation with China.

Hearing about Sri Lanka's domestic situation from Rajapakse, Hu said China hoped to see the country achieve peace, stability and prosperity at an early date.

Concerning the 15th summit of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to be held in Sri Lanka later this year, Hu said China would send a high-profile delegation. He believed the summit would achieve full success and expected Sri Lanka to play an important role in cementing the China-SAARC cooperation.

Rajapakse voiced his support for China's role in international and regional organizations.

He was here to attend the annual meeting of the Boao Forum for Asia, scheduled to open on Saturday in Boao, Hainan Province.