China, Czech Republic set up strategic partnership

Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, and Czech President Milos Zeman wave to the press before holding an informal meeting at the Lany chateau, the host's private residence, March 28, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

PRAGUE - China and the Czech Republic on Tuesday decided to establish strategic partnership during Chinese President Xi Jinping's first state visit to the country.

President Xi Jinping arrived at Prague's international airport at about 2 pm local time (8 pm in China) on Monday for an historic three-day visit.

It's the first time that a Chinese president has paid a state visit to the Czech Republic since the two countries established diplomatic ties 67 years ago. Xi's plane was escorted by two Czech fighter jets when it entered the country's airspace.

In a written statement released shortly after Xi's arrival, the Chinese president said that through this visit, he hopes to boost political trust and promote pragmatic cooperation with the Czech Republic.

During the visit, the top leaders of the two countries will hold talks and exchange views on issues including developing strategic connections in pushing forward China-proposed Belt and Road constructions, improving bilateral ties and enhancing China-Central and East European Countries cooperation, according to the statement.