China and Turkey expressed their wishes for closer army-to-army cooperation when Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan held talks with his Turkish counterpart Vecdi Gonul in Beijing Thursday.

Cao, also state councilor, said that recent years have witnessed frequent exchanges between Chinese and Turkish military officials, and cooperation between them has continuously developed.

"China would like to make joint efforts with Turkey to further develop the army-to-army friendly relations and expand the fields of collaboration," said Cao.

Cao briefed Gonul on Chinese defense policy, army building and China's stand on fighting against terrorism.

Cao reaffirmed the Chinese government's stance on the Taiwan issue.

Gonul said that Turkey is willing to step up the army-to-army cooperation, especially on personnel training and military building, and promote the friendly relations between the two armies.

The Turkish government will, as always, pursue the one-China policy, Gonul said.

Gonul started his four-day China visit Wednesday as guest of Cao.

(Xinhua News Agency December 10, 2004)