On February 16, 2009, Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in Port Louis for a state visit to Mauritius, the last leg of his journey of friendship and cooperation to five Asian and African countries.

At about 16:10 local time, Hu’s special plane arrived at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, where he was warmly greeted by Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. Prime Minister Ramgoolam held a grand ceremony at the airport to welcome Hu’s state visit.

In a statement released upon his arrival, Hu pointed out that Mauritius is well known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean. Over the years, the Mauritian government has adhered to the policy of multi-ethnic unity and cultural diversification and has been steadily advancing various economic and social reforms. Mauritius has achieved remarkable results in efforts to improve people’s livelihood and carry out international cooperation.

The two countries have maintained mutual respect and equality and carried out fruitful cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, culture, education and tourism since they forged diplomatic ties in 1972, Hu said. He also praised their mutual support and cooperation in international affairs. "The China-Mauritius relationship has become a model of solidarity and cooperation between two developing countries," Hu said.

During the visit, Hu is expected to meet with Mauritian President Anerood Jugnauth and hold talks with Ramgoolam to exchange in-depth views on bilateral ties and international and regional issues of common concern. He expressed belief that this visit will enhance mutual understanding and trust, deepen the traditional friendship and promote mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Mauritius to push bilateral ties to a new high.

Hu’s entourage including Ling Jihua, Wang Huning and Dai Bingguo arrived by the same plane.

Chinese Ambassador to Mauritius Gao Yuchen and the staff of the embassy also greeted Hu and his delegation at the airport.

Later in the day, President Hu attended a welcoming banquet held by Prime Minister Ramgoolam.

Hu flew into Port Louis from Dar es Salaam, after paying a state visit to Tanzania. Upon departure from Dar es Salaam, he attended a grand farewell ceremony held by Tanzanian President Kikwete at the airport.

President Hu’s current five-nation journey of friendship and cooperation started on February 10. The week-long tour has also taken him to Saudi Arabia, Mali and Senegal.