Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan said Friday in Beijing that China will promote military cooperation with Nepal.

In a meeting with Pyar Jung Thapa, chief of staff of the Nepalese armed forces, Cao said that since the two countries forged diplomatic ties 50 years ago, bilateral relations have witnessed smooth progress on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

The two countries trust each other politically, cooperate economically and support each other in major international affairs, said Cao, who is also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor.

Cao hoped the two countries and militaries expand visits and exchanges in the future.

Thapa affirmed the strengthened military cooperation between Nepal and China, hoping the neighborly partnership between the two countries can move forward.

Also on Friday, Liang Guanglie, chief of the General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, held talks with Thapa.

Liang said that friendly relations between China and Nepal further the interests of the two peoples, as do peace, stability and development in the region.

Liang urged the two countries to make joint efforts to maintain the momentum of exchanges.

Source: Xinhua