BEIJING, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao's visit to four Asian and African nations signifies China's intention to maintain its strong ties to the developing world despite its own economic rise, an expert said.

    "Hu's visit to ... developing countries is aimed at reinforcing traditional ties with old friends and discussing with them new areas, ways and subjects of cooperation in a bid to inject new energy into their cooperation," Yu Wensheng, a research fellow with the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations, wrote in Monday's China Daily.

    Following his state visit to the United States, Hu began a four-nation tour on Saturday, taking in Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Nigeria and Kenya.

    Visiting the United States and the four nations on one tour was a clear message to the rest of the world, Yu said. "That is, as the largest developing country in the world, China takes the strengthening and development of traditional friendly ties and co-operation with developing nations as a major part of its diplomatic policies."

    This year was the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and African countries.

    Hu would exchange ideas and hold face-to-face discussions with the leaders of his host nations on bilateral and China-Africa ties, in addition to jointly planning the future of Sino-African relations. They would also prepare for a fruitful "Asia-Africa Co-operation Forum" and Beijing Summit later this year.

    Hu's tour would further strengthen the traditional friendships, Yu said. "The visit will also enhance political mutual trust, and expand mutual benefit and cooperation, helping to raise bilateral relations with each of the countries to a new high." Enditem