Chinese President Hu Jintao will pay a state visit to the United States in April, Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Thursday in Beijing.

"At the invitation of U.S. President George W. Bush, Hu will pay a state visit to the United States in mid or late April," Qin Gang told the regular press briefing.

During his visit, Hu will exchange views with Bush on Sino-US relations and important international and regional issues of common concern, Qin said.

China and the United States are making preparations for the visit and China will officially release the news on Hu's visit at a proper time, Qin said.

Hu's visit is decided on the basis of the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries last year, Qin said. "The purpose is to enhance mutual trust, expand common understanding and advance the development of Sino-US constructive cooperation in 21st century."

Source: Xinhua