Chinese Defense Minister Meets Togolese PresidentDefense Minister Chi Haotian met here today with President Gnassingbe Eyadema of Togo and his party who are attending the China-Africa Cooperation Forum in Beijing.Chi, who is also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said that relations between China and Togo have been developing steadily since they established diplomatic ties. Military relations between the two countries have also shown a good development momentum, he said. Chi expressed appreciation for the Togolese government's unremitting efforts in developing Togo's economy, improving the living standards of its people, mediating regional conflicts, and cementing unity and solidarity among African countries, under the leadership of President Eyadema. He expressed the belief that friendly cooperative relations between China and Togo and between their armed forces will further develop in the future with concerted efforts from both sides. Eyadema said that China, as a big country, has always stood by African countries and safeguarded the interests of African countries. He expressed his appreciation for China's adherence to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. The President said that his country will continue to be active in developing relations with China. |
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