In his written speech delivered upon arrival, Hu said although China and Morocco were far apart from each other in distance, the friendship between the peoples of the two countries dated back to ancient times.

Since the two nations forged diplomatic ties 48 years ago, Hu said, bilateral friendly relations had continuously progressed, and the two countries had expanded their cooperation in such fields as politics, economy, trade, health, tourism, science and technology, and conducted increasingly close consultation and cooperation in international affairs.

He said that during his visit, he would hold talks with the Moroccan King, Mohammed VI, and meet with other Moroccan leaders to exchange views on bilateral relations, and international and regional issues of common concern.

Hu said China attached importance to their mutual dealings and would work with Morocco to boost their friendship and cooperation to higher levels so as to benefit the two peoples.

Morocco is the third leg of Hu's five-nation tour which has already taken him to the United States and Saudi Arabia, and will also take him to Nigeria and Kenya.

China-Morocco trade increased by 28 percent year last year to reach 150 million US dollars for 2005. The two sides were expected to sign a series of agreements in such fields as trade, culture, health care and sanitation during Hu's visit.