Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian said that the Chinese government and armed forces attach importance to the development of Sino-Armenian relations, and are ready to further bilateral cooperation in all fields.
Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, made the remarks here Tuesday, in talks with visiting Armenian Defense Minister Sersh Sarkisian.
During the talks, Chi briefed the guests on the Chinese government's views on international and regional issues, China's foreign policy, defense policy, and army building.
On bilateral ties, Chi said the traditional friendship between China and Armenia has overcome the vast distance between the two countries and progressed well recently.
Sarkisian said that this is his first official visit to China, and he hopes that his visit will deepen the mutual understanding and trust between Armenia and China, and further the cooperative relations in the new century.
Sarkisian also spoke on the situation in the Transcaucasia region, and the development of Armenia and its armed forces. He said he believes the friendly cooperation between the two countries and the two armed forces will be improved with the joint efforts of the two sides.
Prior to the talks, Chi held a welcoming ceremony for Sarkisian.
Sarkisian arrived in China this morning on a four-day official visit to China at the invitation of Chi.
(Xinhua News Agency 10/17/2001)
