BEIJING - Chinese President Hu Jintao on Tuesday held talks with his Kyrgyz counterpart, Almazbek Atambayev, in Beijing on bilateral ties and other issues of common concern.

Hu welcomed the visiting Kyrgyz president and said Atambayev's first China visit is hugely significant for the relations between the two nations.

Atambayev said his trip to Beijing is sure to be a great influence on him personally.

Hailing China's achievements in economic and social progress, Atambayev said China is playing a vital role in global efforts to address the ongoing financial crisis.

On Tuesday morning, Hu held a red-carpet ceremony to welcome Atambayev at the Great Hall of the People before their formal talks.

The Kyrgyz president arrived in Beijing on Monday evening. During his time in China, Atambayev will attend the 12th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, scheduled to be held in Beijing on Wednesday and Thursday.