Hu flew into in Lima on Wednesday from Havana after concluding a state visit to Cuba. He will also attend the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting scheduled for November 22-23 in the Peruvian capital.

In a written speech delivered upon arrival at the airport, the Chinese leader said China-Peru relations have developed smoothly since the two countries set up diplomatic ties 37 years ago.

The two countries have expanded cooperation in various sectors and coordinated well in dealing with international or regional issues in recent years, he said.

"China attaches great importance to the development of its relations with Peru and would work together with the Peruvian side to elevate the bilateral ties to a new level," said the president, who will later exchange views with his Peruvian counterpart Alan Garcia and other Peruvian leaders on ways to deepen the bilateral ties.

The visit was aimed at deepening friendship, strengthening mutual trust, enhancing cooperation and seeking common development with Peru, Hu said in a reception given by Peru's senior officials at the airport.

"I believe this visit would be a complete success and the China-Peru ties will develop in a steadier and faster way through this visit," he said.

China and Peru formed a partnership of comprehensive cooperation in 2005, and have exchanged frequent high-level visits, expanded cooperation in various sectors and coordinated in dealing with international or regional affairs.

In March this year, President Garcia visited China. The two sides agreed to push forward the bilateral partnership and enhance mutually beneficial cooperation.

Peru is one of China's major trading partners in Latin America, with two-way trade totaling US$6 billion in 2007.

In Lima, the Chinese president will take part in the Economic Leaders' Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, which will focus on the world financial crisis, support for the Doha round of trade talks, food and energy security, and regional economic integration.

Hu will also meet with leaders of several APEC member economies on the sidelines of the meeting.

APEC, which was established in 1989 and has 21 members, is the premier forum for facilitating economic growth, cooperation, trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region.