BEIJING – Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Cui Tiankai said Wednesday that upon invitation from US President Barack Obama, Chinese President Hu Jintao will pay a state visit to the United States from Jan 18 to 21.

President Hu Jintao will visit Washington DC and make a series of visits, including a talk with US President Obama, a welcoming ceremony, and a state banquet, among other events.

The leaders of the two countries will exchange views about China-US common interests and address major international and regional concerns.

President Hu Jintao will meet some US Congress members and make extensive contact with the American public.

Chinese and US presidents have met seven times in the past. In 2009, President Obama paid a successful visit to China.

"I believe that with joint efforts from China and the US, President Hu's upcoming state visit to the United States must be a complete success." Cui said.

Video and script: Yu Chenkang