The Chinese military is willing to enhance understanding and exchanges with its Colombian counterpart, Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan said in Beijing on January 17.

In his meeting with visiting Colombian armed forces Commander-in-Chief Carlos Ospina, Cao said that China-Colombia relations have progressed smoothly since the two countries forged diplomatic ties twenty five years ago.

"The Chinese government appreciates Colombia's valuable support to China on the issues of Taiwan, human rights and China's status as a permanent observer to the Organization of American States (OAS)," said Cao, who is also a

vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor.

China would like to make joint efforts with Colombia for long-term all-round friendly cooperation, Cao told Ospina and his entourages, who arrived here Sunday.

Cao also briefed them on China's domestic economic development and China's stance on the Taiwan issue.

Ospina reaffirmed that the Colombian government will, as always, adhere to the one-China policy.

Ospina will continue his seven-day China tour in northwest China's Xi'an, east China's Hangzhou and Shanghai.

Source: Xinhua