Chinese Premier Wen Jiaobao (R) meets with Kuwait Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah in Beijing, capital of China, May 11, 2009. (Xinhua photo)

China and Kuwait pledged to work together to deal with the global financial crisis during a meeting between Premier Wen Jiabao and Kuwait Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah on Monday.

Al-Sabah is on his first visit to China since he became Emir of Kuwait in 2006.

Kuwait was the first Gulf Arab country to forge diplomatic ties with China. Wen called the bilateral ties "solid" and cooperation "fruitful".

He said that nations with different social systems and cultural backgrounds could benefit from cooperation as long as they respected each other.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiaobao (L) meets with Kuwait Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah in Beijing, capital of China, May 11, 2009. Photo Gallery>>>

Wen stressed China valued traditional friendship with the Arab countries and supported their efforts to safeguard country's sovereignty, independence and dignity.

Al-Sabah said his visit showed Kuwait's desire to develop relations with China, vowing to build a long-term, stable, and sustainable relationship.

He also emphasized the coordination between the two countries on international issues and issues concerning the Gulf and the Arab region.