BEIJING - Chinese President Hu Jintao said on Wednesday that Mozambique President Armando Emilio Guebuza's current state visit to China will enhance mutual understanding between the two nations and create a bright future for the development of bilateral ties.

Hu made the remarks while holding talks with Guebuza in Beijing's Great Hall of the People Wednesday morning.

Guebuza arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for his first state visit to China. Guebuza's trip will also take him to South China's city of Shenzhen, where he will attend the opening ceremony of the 26th Summer Universiade on Friday. He also plans to visit Central China's Henan province.

During the meeting, President Hu warmly welcomed Guebuza to China, stating that he was glad to see the Mozambique president again. The heads of state previously met in Beijing in August 2008 when Guebuza came to China for the opening ceremony of the 2008 Olympic Games.

Hu expressed appreciation for Guebuza's long-term efforts to enhance China-Mozambique relations and his contributions in advancing bilateral ties.

China and Mozambique have maintained sound momentum in expanding bilateral ties since establishing official relations 36 years ago, Hu said. Over the years, the two sides have maintained frequent high-level contact and cooperated in the areas of politics, trade, economics and public health, according to Hu.

Bilateral people-to-people exchanges have been increasing in recent years, and the two countries have carried out close coordination and cooperation on regional and international issues, Hu said.

Guebuza will meet Premier Wen Jiabao and top legislator Wu Bangguo later in the day on Wednesday.