Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov in Moscow on Thursday, during which they expressed readiness to further strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.

Kasyanov said that the Russian government attaches great importance to reinforcing contacts between the two countries' armies, because this not only serves the interests of Russia and China, but also helps maintain regional peace and stability and that of the world.

Cao, who is also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said that China would continue to implement the common understanding reached by the heads of state.

Cao also thanked Russia for its persistent and effective support to China on the Taiwan issue and on the issue of human rights.

Cao arrived in Moscow Monday for a week-long visit at the invitation of his Russian counterpart Sergei Ivanov.

(Xinhua News Agency December 19, 2003)