Visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and his New Zealand counterpart Helen Clark began talks on Thursday morning to exchange views on bilateral relations as well as international and regional issues of common concern.

After the talks, the two leaders are expected to witness the signing of a number of agreements and documents on bilateral cooperation and then hold a joint press conference.

Wen, who arrived here Wednesday on an official visit, will also call on Governor-General Silvia Cartright, opposition leader Don Brash later Thursday.

New Zealand is the third leg of the Chinese premier's four- nation tour, which has taken him to Australia and Fiji and will take him to Cambodia.

In a written statement released upon his arrival here Wednesday evening, Premier Wen said China-New Zealand relations have moved forward steadily in recent years, marked by strengthened political ties, fruitful economic and trade cooperation, growing exchange of visits and dialogue and coordination over regional and global issues.

He said that a strong relationship of all-round cooperation between China and New Zealand serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and two peoples, and contributes to the stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.