At the invitation of Egyptian Prime Minister Ahmed Mahmoud Mohamed Nazef, Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang arrived in Cairo on Wednesday afternoon for an official visit to Egypt.

"I believe my visit will promote the China-Egypt strategic partnership of cooperation to a higher level," Li said in a written speech upon arrival at the airport.

He noted that China attaches great importance to developing relations with Egypt and is ready to make joint efforts with the Egyptian side to consolidate the traditional friendship, deepen the strategic partnership of cooperation and enhance coordination in international and regional issues with Egypt.

During his four-day visit, Li is expected to meet Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and hold talks with Nazef on bilateral relations with the Arab world and Africa, and regional, international issues.

Egypt is the second leg of Li's first overseas trip since he took office as vice premier in March. The trip has brought him to Indonesia and will bring him to Kuwait.

Among his entourages are senior foreign affairs, development, commercial and banking officials.

(Xinhua News Agency December 25, 2008)