Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived in Bratislava on Wednesday for a two-day official visit to Slovakia.

In a written speech distributed to the press upon his arrival at the airport, Wen said he was happy with the development of Sino-Slovak relations.

"There has been a traditional friendship between China and Slovakia and between the two peoples," said Wen in the speech.

"In recent years, as a result of joint efforts, mutual understanding has been deepened; economic and trade cooperation has borne fruit; and exchanges in various fields have been expanded," he said.

Slovakia is a young country full of vigor, said the Chinese premier, adding that since gaining independence in 1993, the Slovak people have made headway in nation-building and economic development.

"Slovakia is playing an increasingly important role in international and regional affairs," he said. "I am looking forward to having frank, in-depth discussions with Slovak leaders on bilateral relations and other issues of common concern, in order to promote understanding, broaden consensus and deepen cooperation."

He expressed the belief that his visit would push Sino-Slovak relations to a new height.

During his stay, Premier Wen is expected to meet President Ivan Gasparovic, Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda and Parliament Speaker Pavol Hrusovsky.

Wen arrived here after his four-day visit to France. He is also expected to visit the Czech Republic and Portugal before he travels to Malaysia.

Source: Xinhua