TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Saudi Arabia to attend the first China-Arab States Summit and the China-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit. Xi arrived on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, and was welcomed by the Governor of Riyadh Prince Faisal bin Bandar Al-Saud, Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister Yasir Al-Rumayyan, and other important figures of the royal family.

Xi's visit to Saudi Arabia was made in response to the invitation extended by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia.

Following his arrival, Xi issued a written statement, extending his warm greetings and best wishes to the government and people of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Chinese government.

Xi also stated that the relationship between China and Saudi Arabia has recently been strengthened. Xi added that both countries' practical cooperation in various fields has generated positive results since the establishment of diplomatic ties 32 years ago.

Xi highlighted that since the establishment of the China-Saudi Arabia comprehensive strategic partnership back in 2016, China and Saudi Arabia have worked together to achieve significant progress, which not only benefits the people of both countries, but also contributed to regional peace, stability, prosperity, and further development.

Xi noted that during his visit, he will be having substantial discussions with King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud concerning bilateral relations and several international issues that concern China and Saudi Arabia, and jointly chart the course for China-Saudi Arabia relations.

Xi added that he looks forward to attending the first China-Arab States Summit and the China-GCC Summit, and working with leaders of Arab states and GCC countries to push China-Arab and China-GCC relations to new heights.

XINHUA