Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang Tuesday arrived in Port Moresby for an official visit to Papua New Guinea at the invitation of the Pacific island nation's government.

Papua New Guinea is one of the first Pacific island countries to establish diplomatic relations with China, Li said in a written speech upon arrival at the airport.

Since the two countries forged diplomatic ties in 1976, their relations have been growing steadily, he said.

In recent years in particular, the two sides have conducted frequent high-level exchanges, deepened mutual political trust and expanded exchanges and cooperation in such areas as economy and trade, culture, education and health, he said.

The two countries have also maintained good communication and coordination in global and regional affairs, Li said.

The development of their bilateral ties has not only brought tangible benefits to the peoples of the two countries, but has also contributed to peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region, he said.

His current visit to the biggest developing country in the South Pacific region "is aimed at further deepening the friendly cooperative relations and traditional friendship between the two countries," the Chinese vice premier said.

Li said he will have an in-depth exchange of views with Papua New Guinean leaders on the development of bilateral relations and other issues of common concern.

Li is expected to meet with Papua New Guinean Governor General Paulias Matane, Prime Minister Michael Thomas Somare and Deputy Prime Minister Puka Temu.

Papua New Guinea is the last stop of Li's three-nation tour, which has already taken him to Australia and New Zealand.