Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan met in Beijing Tuesday with Antonio Justiniano, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Bolivia.

Cao, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, said that relations between China and Bolivia have developed smoothly since the two countries established diplomatic relations 20 years ago.

The countries have supported each other and cooperated well in international affairs, Cao said.

He said that the armed forces of China and Bolivia have built a solid foundation of cooperation and friendly exchanges. The Chinese side wishes to make further efforts to strengthen and develop the friendly and cooperative cooperation between the two armies.

Cao briefed the guest on the principled stand of the Chinese government on the Taiwan issue.

Antonio Justiniano said that the two countries have conducted friendly cooperation in various fields which has strengthened ties and understanding.

Exchanges and cooperation between the armed forces have promoted the development of the Bolivian military, he said.

Bolivia respects and appreciates the Chinese government's stand on the Taiwan issue and hopes that the Taiwan problem will be solved peacefully, he added.

(Xinhua News Agency October 26, 2005)