The Chinese armed forces always attach great importance to friendly relations with the Greek army and are eager to enhance bilateral exchanges and cooperation, Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan said in Beijing Monday.

In a meeting with visiting Greek Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos, Cao said Sino-Greek relations have developed smoothly since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1972.

"Leaders of the two countries have kept regular contacts and strengthened political trust. Obvious achievements have been made in cooperation in terms of economics, science, technology, culture and education," said Cao, who is also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor.

The two armed forces have had high-level contacts and cooperation in various fields, he added.

Cao expressed his appreciation for Greece's adherence to the one-China policy.

Spiliotopoulos said the two armed forces have conducted fruitful cooperation in the fields of defense and security.

He expressed the hope that the two sides should cooperate in providing security for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

(Xinhua News Agency August 30, 2005)