China president makes first ever visit to Trinidad, starting regional tour that will end in US

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad – Chinese President Xi Jinping has met with leaders from Trinidad and Tobago on his first stop of a regional tour.

The leader tells reporters that that the two countries have agreed to cooperate on energy, minerals and infrastructure development. China is also lending Trinidad $250 million to build a children's hospital.

Officials say Trinidad plans to open an embassy in Beijing later this year.

China and Trinidad have had diplomatic ties for almost 40 years, but Xi's visit on Saturday was the first ever for a Chinese president.

Xi arrived in Trinidad late Friday. He is also traveling to Mexico, Costa Rica and the U.S. on this trip.