President Xi Jinping has arrived in New Zealand's Auckland for a state visit. It is the first visit by a Chinese head of state to New Zealand in 11 years, and President Xi's third trip to the country but first as president. His visit aims at enhancing mutual trust and win-win cooperation between the two countries.

President Xi Jinping has arrived in New Zealand's Auckland for a state visit.?

In a signed open letter published in the New Zealand Herald, President Xi called for joint efforts to work for an even better future of bilateral ties. He lauded the friendship between the two peoples and "historic strides forward" in their bilateral relations.

The president arrived in Auckland on Wednesday afternoon from Australia. Before he left, Xi and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott attended the Australia-China State and Provincial Leaders Forum in Sydney. President Xi spoke highly of the development of ties since the two countries established diplomatic ties.

He also said they've upgraded bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, and practically concluded negotiations on a free trade agreement.