On the noon of January 18, local time, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived in Doha, capital of Qatar, by special plane for an official visit to the country.

Since the two countries established diplomatic ties 24 years ago, bilateral cooperation between the two countries in such fields as politics, trade and economy, energy and culture has been fruitful, the premier said in a written speech delivered upon his arrival at the airport. Both sides have maintained good communications and coordination on regional and international affairs, he noted. "China attaches great importance to relations with Qatar and is ready to make concerted efforts with the country to continue deepening the friendship between the two peoples and pushing forward China-Qatar pragmatic cooperation in all areas," Wen said.

During the visit, Wen was expected to meet with Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and Crown Prince Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, and hold talks with Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Hamad bin Jasim bin Jabir al-Thani, exchanging views with them on China-Qatar relations as well as international and regional issues of common concern. "I am sure that this visit will further enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples and promote bilateral ties to yield more fruitful results in the new period," he said.

Senior officials from the Qatari government and Chinese Ambassador to Qatar Zhang Zhiliang greeted Wen at the airport.

Premier Wen arrived here after concluding his official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).