Doctor Henry Kissinger and his delegation with the America-China Society arrived in Beijing Thursday, starting a week-long visit at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs.

Kissinger served as assistant for national security affairs of the US from 1969 to 1973. In September 1973, he became the first foreign-born person to be US secretary of state and served his term till 1977.

During his service as secretary of state, Kissinger made numerous diplomatic visits, and prominent of all, the historic visit to China in 1971. In 1973, he won the Noble peace prize.

During his current visit, Kissinger is expected to meet with Chinese leaders and discuss questions concerning the Sino-US relations.

(Xinhua 03/15/2001)