Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan met in Beijing Tuesday with his Thai counterpart Boonrawd Somtat.

Cao, also vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission and state councilor, said China and Thailand are friendly neighbors and important partners.

The two countries have seen increasing political mutual trust, successful economic and trade cooperation and fruitful cooperation between the two armed forces, he said.

China will continue to keep closer exchanges and cooperation with Thailand so as to contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in the region, Cao added.

Boonrawd said Thailand and China have established brotherly traditional friendship and the two armed forces have kept close contacts and cooperation.

Thailand attaches great importance to its relationship with China and will make joint efforts in pushing ahead bilateral ties, Boonrawd said.

Boonrawd is visiting here with Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont who arrived Monday afternoon for a two-day visit to China.

Source: Xinhua