China's economic development does not pose any threat to other countries in the world and Argentina wishes to strengthen its strategic partnership with China, said Argentine Vice President Daniel Osvaldo Scioli Thursday.

He made the remarks when meeting in Buenos Aires a Chinese military delegation headed by Liang Guanglie, member of the Central Military Commission and chief of the General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

It is the highest-level visit by Chinese military officials to Argentina since the two countries established full diplomatic ties in 1972.

Scioli said China's development does not pose any threat to other countries, but serves as a good opportunity for cooperation in the eyes of the Argentine government.

Argentina hopes that the Chinese economy will continue its development, said Scioli.

Scioli highlighted the ties of cooperation between Argentina and China in "cultural, social and economic matters," saying that the exchange of visits by state leaders of the two countries in 2004 accelerated the development of bilateral ties.

He reiterated that the Argentine government will firmly abide by the one-China policy, oppose Taiwan's independence and continue to support China's reunification cause.

Liang conveyed the regards to Scioli from Vice President Zeng Qinghong, saying last year's exchange of visits by the two countries' leaders resulted in the establishment of the strategic partnership between the two countries, which opened a new chapter in bilateral ties.

Liang said his current visit was aimed to strengthen the friendly ties, expand common ground and cooperation between the two militaries.

Liang met Defense Minister Jose Pampuro earlier the day, along with top Argentine military leaders.

Liang arrived in Buenos Aires Thursday on a four-day visit at the invitation of Argentine Ministry of Defense. His delegation is also scheduled to visit Uruguay and Cuba.

(Xinhua News Agency October 28, 2005)