"The cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia has broad prospects. China views Saudi Arabia as an important force in the multipolar world and attaches great importance to the development of a comprehensive strategic partnership with Riyadh," Xi said, as quoted by CCTV.
The Chinese leader arrived in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday for a state visit that will last until December 10, and he will attend the first China-Arab Summit and the China-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said earlier that the first Sino-Arab summit would be of epochal importance for the development of relations between Beijing and the countries of the region.
Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in his turn, said that Riyadh firmly adheres to the one-China principle and supports Beijing in protecting its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.
"Saudi Arabia firmly adheres to the one-China principle, supports China in defending its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, and supports China's deradicalization measures and efforts, firmly opposes outside interference in China's internal affairs under the pretext of protecting human rights," the crown prince said at a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as quoted by China Central Television.