China's intentions may also become clearer in a series of high-level visits by American officials to Beijing over the next several months.

He said the Saudis acceded to the request only last week, and even then probably because of this week's high-level visit.

The high-level visit was also expected to produce several agreements to deepen political, cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

Exchange of high-level visits by top leaders from both countries have highlighted his tenure.

A series of high-level visits between the two nations have helped improve relations.

They no longer hold out much hope for national attention from the news media and high-level visits.

Since then, the two countries have regularly exchanged high-level visits resulting in a variety of agreements.

"There is definite talk about high-level visits," the official said.

Further measures have recently been agreed, including limits to high-level visits.

Since then the two countries have exchanged occasional high-level visits.