Washington (CNN) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao arrives in Washington on Tuesday, a day before a high-profile meeting with U.S. President Barack Obama to discuss trade, currency and a host of other issues, including North Korea.
Chinese state media has reported that Hu will stress how a constructive, comprehensive partnership between the powers could be mutually beneficial and help ensure stability in Asia and worldwide, despite differences between Beijing and Washington.
In addition to Obama, Hu is also scheduled to meet with top legislators and business executives. After Washington, Hu will make a stop in Chicago.
Vice President Joe Biden is slated to personally greet Hu when the Chinese leader arrives at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at 4 p.m. Obama will host Hu at a small White House dinner Tuesday night, and the Chinese president will be the guest of honor at a formal state dinner Wednesday evening.
This week's meeting between the leaders of the world's two largest economies has put the spotlight on criticism that the government-controlled People's Bank of China artificially undervalues the yuan, bringing down the cost of Chinese exports, which would give it an advantage in the international market.
Last week, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said China must do more to address its undervalued currency and dependence on exports, adding that such a move is in Beijing's best interest because it will control inflation. CNN
