Havana, July 22 (RHC) –- Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated the Cuban people upon his arrival on official visit to Havana on Monday evening and said his visit will further strengthen bilateral friendship relations. He was welcomed at Havana’s Jose Marti International Airport by Cuba’s First Vice President Miguel Diaz-Canel.

During the visit of the Chinese president, Cuba and China will sign collaboration agreements in areas such as trade, agriculture, bio-technology, culture and education.

Upon his arrival, Xi told reporters that Cuba was the first Latin American and Caribbean nation to forge diplomatic relations with the New China, in 1960, opening a new chapter for China-Latin America ties. Since then, the two nations have withstood the tests of a constantly changing international landscape, he said, adding that the two good friends, comrades and brothers have contributed a lot to promoting solidarity and cooperation among developing countries and safeguarding their common interests.

Xi noted that Cuba, an important Latin American and Caribbean nation, has adhered to the socialist course for more than 50 years under the leadership of the Communist Party of Cuba. He said that the country has also firmly safeguarded national sovereignty, worked hard to promote economic growth, and constantly improved people's livelihood, thus making outstanding achievements in various fields of social and economic development.

The Chinese president said he expects his visit will further promote bilateral friendship and deepen mutual trust, expand cooperation and boost development.