Chinese President kicks off state visit to Tanzania

Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in the Tanzanian capital Dar es Salaamlate 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, Maliand Senegal. The week-long tour will also take him to Mauritius before he flies back home on Tuesday.

Tanzaniais 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.

The president said his visit is aimed at enhancing mutual trust, expanding cooperation, planning for the future and lifting friendly and cooperative relations to a new high.

Hu said he's expecting an in-depth exchange of views with President Kikwete and other Tanzanian leaders on bilateral relations and on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

During his stay, Hu will also meet with Zanzibar President Amani Abeid Karume, attend the completion ceremony of Tanzania's state stadium, and deliver a key-note speech at a welcoming meeting on Monday.