WASHINGTON - The White House has finalized Jan 19 as the date for Chinese President Hu Jintao's visit to the United States.

"President Hu's visit will highlight the importance of expanding cooperation between the United States and China on bilateral, regional and global issues, as well as the friendship between the peoples of our two countries," the White House said in a statement issued Wednesday.

Hu's visit with US President Barack Obama will include a state dinner in the evening.

It marks the third formal state visit Obama and his wife, Michelle, have hosted. They have also hosted the leaders of India and Mexico.