Beijing (Reopens) On the other hand, the Jeddah-based Arab News said King Abdullah's three-day visit is expected to strengthen political, economic, commercial and cultural ties between the two Asian economic giants. China has warmly welcomed news of Abdullah's forthcoming visit, his first to a foreign country since ascended the throne in Riyadh on August 1 and first by a Saudi king since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1990. The talks between King Abdullah and Chinese President Hu Jintao are expected to focus on energy and security issues. Saudi Arabia is China's main oil supplier as Beijing imports 14 percent of its total oil requirements from the Kingdom. "The Chinese government places great importance on this visit," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan said, adding that King Abdullah and President Hu Jintao would review the development of bilateral relations over the past 15 years and explore ways of further expanding cooperation between the two countries in all fields. Kong said the two leaders would also discuss bilateral cooperation in the field of energy resources, but added that it was not yet clear whether the two sides would sign any agreements in the area. The king is scheduled to visit only Beijing, where he would meet with other Chinese leaders, Kong said.--MORE 12 00 Local Time 09 00 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/320178