Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived in Wellington Wednesday to begin his official visit to New Zealand, a visit by a Chinese premier in nearly 18 years.

New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark greeted Premier Wen at the airport and held a welcome ceremony for the Chinese guests.

In a written statement released upon his arrival, Premier Wen said though China and New Zealand are geographically far apart, there is a long history of friendly exchanges between the two peoples.

In recent years, he said, China-New Zealand relations have moved forward steadily, marked by strengthened political ties, fruitful economic and trade cooperation, growing exchange of visits and dialogue and coordination over regional and global issues.

"A strong relationship of all-round cooperation between China and New Zealand serves the fundamental interests of our two countries and two peoples, and contributes to the stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region," Wen said, adding that he has come to New Zealand to make this relationship even stronger.

"During the visit, I will discuss with leaders of New Zealand ways to advance this all-round cooperative relationship and other issues of mutual interest. I will also have extensive contact with the New Zealand public," he said.

The Chinese leader expressed confidence that with joint efforts, China-New Zealand relationship will continue to register fruitful progress.

New Zealand is the third-leg of Premier Wen's four-nation tour which will also take him to Cambodia. He had paid official visits to Australia and Fiji before his arrival in Wellington.

Source: Xinhua