Liang Guanglie, chief of general staff of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) met in Beijing Friday with Hans- Heinrich Dieter, deputy inspector general of the German Armed Forces, who is here for the second round of strategic consultation between Chinese and German armies.

Liang congratulated on the positive results achieved in the consultation. He said since the diplomatic relations between the two countries were established over 30 years ago, bilateral relations developed smoothly. The two nations shared the same or similar ideas in many important international issues, as well as carried out wide cooperation in political, economic, cultural and military areas. There is only common interest between the two nations.

He said, China valued the important role played by Germany in European and international affairs, and is willing to further develop cooperation with Germany in all areas. The military relations will have more potential in the new century.

Liang also briefed guests on China's domestic construction, defense policy, and army construction situation.

Dieter said Germany valued relations with China and hoped to further strengthen the exchanges with China, in order to enhance mutual understanding and friendship.

(Xinhua News Agency July 30, 2004)