Xi visits ancient observatory in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R, front) visits the ancient Ulugh Beg Observatory with the company of Uzbekistan's President Islam Karimov (C) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Sept. 10, 2013. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Bishkek for his first state visit to Kyrgyzstan. During his stay, the Chinese president will also attend a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Kyrgyzstan is the last stop on Xi's tour through Central Asia.

Earlier, he wrapped up his state visit to Uzbekistan by visiting some of the country's well-known historic sites.

Accompanied by Uzbek President Islam Karimov, President Xi toured a museum, a space observatory, and the ancient Registan Square located in Uzbekistan's second largest city of Samarkand. Xi said he appreciated the country's culture, and hoped to boost understanding and friendship between the two peoples. He also said the two countries should step up cooperation and exchanges, and jointly write a new chapter in the development of civilizations along the ancient Silk Road.