The Chinese military held "active attitude" in developing cooperation with Albanian armed forces and will make efforts to further military relations in line with mutual respect, equality and mutual benefits, said Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan in Beijing Thursday.

Cao, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, made the remarks in the official talks with Albanian Defense Minister Pandelt Majko.

Cao said that the China-Albania relations have withstood the test of history and witnessed smooth growth with frequent high-level exchanges in recent years.

Amidst the smooth advancement of the relations between the two nations, he said, the bilateral military relations, which is an important part of the state-to-state ties, also enjoyed a steady development.

Cao also briefed the guests on China's domestic situation and defense policy, and reiterated China's principled stance on the Taiwan issue.

The Albanian government will, as always, continue to adhere to the one-China policy, Majko said, adding the Albanian side hoped to enhance contacts and cooperation with China in the long run.

Majko started his China tour Wednesday as guest of Cao.

(Xinhua News Agency November 12, 2004