Chinese President Hu Jintao said Thursday he believed Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's visit to China would push bilateral relationship to a new level.

After extending a welcome to Harper, Hu said the visit, which was the first to China since Harper took office, was of great significance.

China believed the visit would be conductive to enhancing mutual understanding and practical cooperation, said Hu.

Hu made the remarks when meeting with Harper Thursday afternoon.

Harper said the two countries had "good and frank relationship" and diplomatic relations which were approaching 40 years, and enjoyed expanded trade cooperation.

"I am sure the visit will help further those relations in the future," said Harper.

Harper said he had wanted to visit China since he was a boy.

Harper kicked off his five-day visit to China Wednesday, and was scheduled to hold talks with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao late Thursday afternoon.

Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo will meet Harper on Friday.

(Xinhua News Agency December 3, 2009)