Italian president starts China tour

Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi (L, front) plays an ancient Chinese musical instrument during his visit to the Confucian temple in Beijing Dec.4, 2004. Ciampi arrived here Saturday, starting his six-day state visit to China.

Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi (C) with wife Franca greets officals upon arrival at Beijing airport December 4, 2004. President Ciampi is on an official visit to China till December 9.

Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi (L2, front) and his wife (L1, front) stand in front of a statue of Confucius during their visit to Confucian temple in Beijing, Dec.4.