ROME - Top Chinese political advisor Jia Qinglin arrived here Tuesday afternoon for an official goodwill visit to Italy.

China and Italy have continuously strengthened mutual political trust and scored fruitful achievements in pragmatic cooperation in various fields since the establishment of their diplomatic ties 42 years ago, said Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), in a written statement upon arrival.

The two countries have also maintained close communication and coordination in international and regional affairs, with the content of their comprehensive strategic partnership continuously enriched, he said.

The development of China-Italy relations is currently facing a new historic opportunity, Jia said.

He said he is looking forward to having in-depth talks with Italian leaders, including Prime Minister Mario Monti, on bilateral ties and other issues of common concern.

Jia said he would also meet Italians from all walks of life, so as to deepen mutual understanding between the two peoples and push forward the two countries' pragmatic cooperation.

Italy is the first leg of Jia's three-nation tour which will also take him to Costa Rica and Argentina.