Chinese President Hu Jintao
arrived in Wellington Saturday afternoon on a three-day state visit
to New Zealand, which is expected to enhance the economic and trade
cooperation between the two countries.
In a written statement issued upon his arrival at the Wellington
International Airport, Hu said the friendly exchanges between the
peoples of New Zealand and China can trace back to ancient
times.
Relations between the two countries have undergone steady
development since the establishment of diplomatic relations 31
years ago, he said, adding that both countries have conducted
expanding and fruitful exchanges and cooperation in all fields.
Further strengthening the friendly cooperation between China and
New Zealand not only conforms to the common aspirations and
fundamental interests of the two peoples, but also contributes to
the maintenance and promotion of peace, stability and prosperity in
the Asia-Pacific region and the world at large, he said.
The president said that his current visit is aimed to
consolidate friendship, expand common ground, enhance cooperation
and promote common development.
"I look forward to an in-depth exchange of views with New
Zealand leaders on the ways to further strengthen the friendly
relations of all-around cooperation between China and New
Zealand,and on issues of mutual interests," Hu said.
The Chinese leader said he will meet New Zealand friends from
all walks of life to know more about the country's achievements and
success experiences.
"I believe that with the joint efforts of the two sides, the
China-New Zealand relations will surely bear richer fruits," he
said.
The Chinese president was met at the airport by New Zealand
Governor-General Dame Silvia Cartwright, Prime Minister Helen
Elizabeth Clark, Chinese Ambassador Chen Mingming and staff members
of the Chinese embassy.
Hu was arriving from Australia, where he also paid a three-day
visit. Before his trip to Australia, he visited Thailand and
attended the informal Economic Leaders' Meeting of the Asia-Pacific
Economic Cooperation in the Thai capital of Bangkok.
(China Daily October 25, 2003)