Chinese Minister of National Defense Cao Gangchuan told visiting Belgian Chief of Defense Staff August Van Daele Wednesday that the Chinese armed forces treasures its cooperation with Belgian army, and is ready to work closely with it to promote Sino-Belgian military ties up to a higher level.

Daele arrived here Tuesday for an official good-will visit as guest of Liang Guanglie, chief of general staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Cao said although there is long distance between China and Belgium, the people of the two countries have long-standing friendship. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations 30 years ago, their relations developed rapidly.

As an important component part of bilateral relations, Sino- Belgian military ties progressed smoothly in recent years, he said. The friendly exchanges between the two countries' defense ministries and armies kept increasing, and the scope of cooperation has kept expanding, he added.

Daele said the Belgian armed forces values its cooperative ties with the Chinese army, and is willing to continue their military exchanges and cooperation.

Before the meeting, Liang Guanglie held talks with Daele. Liang said the armed forces of the two countries conducted fruitful exchanges in the spheres of military sports, medical care and education in recent years, which has promoted mutual understanding and army building.

Liang said the Chinese army holds positive attitude on developing Sino-Belgian military relations, and is ready to join hands with the Belgian army to promote further advancement of their ties.

Before the talks, Liang held a welcome ceremony for Daele's China visit.

Source: Xinhua