Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao has met with visiting Irqai Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki in Beijing.

The visit marks al-Maliki's first official visit to China as prime minister. Al-Maliki was welcomed by an official ceremony at the Great Hall of the People. After the ceremony, talks were held on bilateral ties and further cooperation.

Wen Jiabao and Al-Maliki also witnessed the signing of a series of cooperation projects. Al-Maliki arrived in Beijing on Sunday night. He is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao on Tuesday, and finish his visit on Thursday.

Prior to his trip, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that the two countries have witnessed smooth development of bilateral relations, steadily growing economic cooperation and increasing cultural exchanges.

The spokesman also said China is ready to work with the international community, and to continue to provide assistance for the Iraqi people to improve their livelihoods.