Related: Chinese paper says Chirac's China tour magnifies partnership

Chinese Vice-President Zeng Qinghong (L) greets French President Jacques Chirac at the airport in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province on Oct. 8. Chirac arrived Friday evening to start his five-day state visit to China. (Xinhua photo)

French President Jacques Chirac shakes hands with a Chuanju Opera actor after watching his changing-face performance in Chengdu. (Xinhua photo)

    ¡¡CHENGDU, Oct. 8 (Xinhuanet) -- French President Jacques Chirac arrived in this capital city of southwest China's Sichuan ProvinceFriday evening, kicking off a five-day state visit to China as guest of Chinese President Hu Jintao.

    Chinese Vice President Zeng Qinghong received him and his delegation at the Shuangliu International Airport of Chengdu.

    Besides Chengdu, Chirac will also visit Beijing, Shanghai and Hongkong. He will attend the opening ceremony of the French Culture Year during his China tour.

    It's the third time for Chirac to visit China as French president. Previously, he visited China in 1997 and 2000, respectively, as French president. Enditem