Venezuelan President Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias arrived here Saturday on a visit to east China's Shandong Province.

Zhang Gaoli, chairman of the Standing Committee of the provincial People's Congress, and Provincial Governor Han Yuqun met Chavez after his arrival.

Zhang said Shandong is an important province of China, and Shandong's Yankuang Group and Gold Group have several cooperative projects in Venezuela. Chavez's visit is expected to promote

cooperation in relevant fields.

Zhang also extended Christmas greetings to Chavez and his entourage.

Chavez said Shandong plays an important role in Venezuela-China relations. The railway project implemented by Yankuang Group in Venezuela will boost the economy in the areas along the line.

He hoped both sides further cooperate in the sectors of energy, agriculture and small and medium-sized enterprises.

This is the second leg of Chavez's visit to China. He arrived in Beijing on Thursday for his third visit to China.

During his stay in Beijing, Chavez held talks or met with Chinese President Hu Jintao, Chairman Wu Bangguo of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Premier Wen Jiabao and Vice President Zeng Qinghong.

He also attended the China-Venezuelan business talk, a statue erection ceremony and delivered a speech at Beijing University.

Source: Xinhua