Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan and his Peruvian counterpart Roberto Chiabra Monday vowed to further expand bilateral exchanges and cooperation between the two countries' armed forces.  

In his talks in Beijing with Chiabra, Cao, also vice chairman of the Chinese Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said bilateral exchanges and cooperation between China and Peru have been increasingly expanding in such spheres as politics, economy and culture since they forges diplomatic ties in 1971.

The two countries have conducted close cooperation and gained mutual support on major international issues, he acknowledged.

Cao said that the growth of friendly cooperation between the two armed forces, which enjoys broad prospects, is in compliance with the fundamental interests of the two sides. China holds positive attitude to the future expansion of bilateral military relations and is ready to join hands with Peru to enhance them, he said.

Cao also briefed Chiabra on China's economic development and army building and the government's principled position on Taiwan issue.

Chiabra, who started his China tour Sunday as guest of Cao, said the friendly cooperative ties between the armed forces of the two countries have been cemented and strengthened in recent years.

He expressed the hope of acquainting himself with changes and development of the Chinese armed forces during his visit and continuing to promote the cooperation in diversified fields, Chiabra said.

Before the talks, Cao held a welcome ceremony for Chiabra's China visit.

(Xinhua News Agency July 12, 2005)