China's Ministry of National Defense hosted a new year reception on Wednesday evening for over 200 foreign military attaches and their wives from 76 countries.

In his toast, Zhang bangdong, director of the Foreign Affairs Office of the ministry, briefed the guests on the achievements that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has made in its exchanges and cooperation with foreign armed forces over the past year.

He also expressed appreciation for the positive efforts that foreign military attaches have made in promoting the exchanges with the Chinese side.

Zhang said in 2006, the PLA will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy of peace and a defensive policy of national defense. It will also adhere to a new security concept of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality and coordination, and conduct active cooperation with foreign armed forces.

Chinese Defense Minister, Vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) and State Councilor Cao Gangchuan, Chief of the PLA General Staff Liang Guanglie, and other senior Chinese officers attended the reception.

Source: Xinhua