DHAKA, June 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping arrived in Dhaka, capital of Bangladesh on Monday, kicking off his official visit to Bangladesh.

Xi made the visit as a guest of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed. Xi's tour is the first visit of a Chinese vice president to the southern Asian country.

Bangladesh is the first leg of Xi's four-nation trip, and he will also visit Laos, New Zealand and Australia.

Xi was warmly received at the airport by Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Dipu Moni.

In a written speech delivered at the airport upon arrival, Xi said he wishes to "take this opportunity to pay tribute and extend best wishes to the Bangladeshi government and people." "China and Bangladesh are close and friendly neighbors," said the vice president, adding that the China-Bangladesh friendly relationship and cooperation have enjoyed continuous growth over the 35 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations.

"The two sides are now working to build a closer comprehensive partnership of cooperation. A new starting point brings new development opportunities to the bilateral relationship," he said.

During his stay in Dhaka on Monday and Tuesday, Xi is expected to hold talks with Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed, and met with other Bangladeshi leaders and friends.

"My visit is aimed at consolidating our friendship, deepening mutual trust and expanding bilateral cooperation," Xi said.

"I'm convinced that my visit will further consolidate and strengthen the traditional friendship between our two countries and push for new progress in China-Bangladesh relations," he added.