On November 13, at the invitation of Spanish King Juan Carlos I, Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in Madrid, capital of Spain, kicking off his state visit to this country.

At about 12:00 local time, Hu's special plane arrived at Barajas International Airport in Madrid. Hu and his wife Liu Yongqing were warmly welcomed by Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos at the airport.

Hu delivered a written speech at the airport. He pointed out that Spain enjoys a time-honored history and splendid culture and the Spanish people have made outstanding contributions to the progress of mankind civilization. The friendly exchanges between both peoples go back to ancient times. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 32 years ago, bilateral political relations have been continuously consolidated with fruitful achievements in economic and trade cooperation and increasingly enhanced exchanges and cooperation in various areas. China gives top priority to developing relation with Spain and would like to further bilateral mutually beneficial cooperation and better serve both peoples.

Hu noted that during the visit, he will exchange in-depth views with Spanish leaders on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of common interest and broadly engage with Spanish personages from all walks of life. It is believed that this visit will surely score a great success.

Chinese Ambassador to Spain Qiu Xiaoqi and the staff of the Chinese Embassy in Spain also greeted President Hu at the airport.

State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan and other companions arrived in the same plane.