German President Horst Koehler's official four-day visit to China started yesterday, his first trip to China.

German Ambassador Volker Stanzel told reporters in a news briefing earlier this week that the purpose of Koehler's visit is "to see how China has taken measures to target such issues as environmental protection, social equality and human rights".

As Germany contributes to one-third of China's trade with the European Union, economic cooperation will also be on the top of agenda, Stanzel said.

Koehler arrived at Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province.

Like many German politicians, Koehler is considered friendly toward China and urges countries such as China, India and Brazil to play a bigger role in international affairs, said Wang Jiannan of China Institute of Contemporary International Relations (CICIR).

"With the German economy improving, it is also seeking a bigger role in international politics," Wang said.

"To meet this end, it is natural for German leaders to turn their eyes to China, a country with the smartest economic performance, and increasing political influence in the world."

Along with the visiting president is a huge delegation, including trade officials, environmental and law experts and members of the Bundestag (German parliment).

Koehler will fly to Beijing today and is expected to hold talks with President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao.

His four-day trip also takes him to Shanghai where he will deliver a speech at Tongji University, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

Source: China Daily