The Chinese side holds an active attitude towards developing its relations with the French armed forces, said Chinese Minister of Defense Cao Gangchuan in Beijing Friday.

Cao, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and State Councilor, made the remarks during a meeting with the visiting Chief of Staff of French Air Force Richard Wolsztynski and his party.

China and France have enjoyed smooth development of bilateral relations in recent years, with fruitful cooperation made in various fields and consultation strengthened in international affairs, Cao said.

Cao also said China and France should further enhance communication and cooperation in the current complicated, volatile international situation.

Relations between the two armed forces constitute an important part of the bilateral ties between the two countries, Cao acknowledged, hoping that Chinese and French armed forces would further consolidate and increase their exchanges.

Wolsztynski expressed the hope that the air forces of France and China would continue to strengthen their cooperation, so as to further promote relations between the two countries and their armed forces.

(Xinhua News Agency October 9, 2004)