Looking ahead to 'golden 50 years'

President Xi Jinping arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday for a trip to Brazil expected to usher in a new "golden 50 years" for China-Brazil relations.

Xi, who just wrapped up a trip to Peru, will attend the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro and pay a state visit to Brazil.

In written remarks delivered upon his arrival at the airport, Xi said the China-Brazil relationship is now at a critical historical juncture as the two nations celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.

"I have made four visits to Brazil before and witnessed firsthand the development and changes in the nation over the past 30 years. Stepping onto this land of hospitality once more makes me feel particularly warm," he said.

China and Brazil are good friends and partners sharing common aspirations in their shared paths forward, Xi said, adding that the two nations, despite oceans apart, have appealed to and resonated with each other.

Xi expressed expectations that he will conduct an in-depth exchange of opinions with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva over further elevating bilateral ties, and stepping up alignment in development strategies and in international and regional issues of common concern.