NTEVIDEO - Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived in Montevideo on Friday for an official visit to the South American state of Uruguay.

In a written speech released upon his arrival, Wen said that the two countries have deepened mutual political trust, steadily expanded practical cooperation, boosted people-to-people exchanges, and maintained sound communication and coordination on international and regional issues since they established diplomatic ties 24 years ago.

Wen said that during his two-day visit, he will exchange views with Uruguayan leaders on bilateral ties, international and regional issues of common concern.

The Chinese premier also voiced hope that his visit will further deepen mutual political trust, advance practical cooperation and promote common development in a bid to lift bilateral relations to a higher level.