Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in the Senegalese capital of Dakar Friday on the first state visit to this western African country.

Hu was received by his Senegalese counterpart Abdoulaye Wade at a welcoming ceremony at the airport.

In a statement issued upon arrival, Hu said both countries enjoy good friendships, and the resumption of diplomatic ties helped the development of bilateral cooperation in politics, trade, culture, education and public health among others.

The visit is aimed at deepening mutual understanding and trust, promoting cooperation in various fields and moving bilateral relations to a new high, Hu said.

During his less than 24 hours' stay in Dakar, Hu will talk with President Wade, meet with the President of the National Assembly Macky Sall and visit China-aided programs.

Dakar was the third leg of President Hu's first overseas trip in 2009, which has been described as "a journey of friendship and cooperation." Earlier, Hu had visited Saudi Arabia and Mali. The week-long tour will also take him to Tanzania and Mauritius.