China will work with Qatar to expand the cooperation between the two nations and two armed forces, Chinese Minister of National Defense Cao Gangchuan said in Beijing on Tuesday.

 

Cao, who is also state councilor and vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks during a meeting with Hamad Bin Ali Al-Attiya, chief of the general staff of Qatar's armed forces, and his party.

 

It is for the first time that a Qatari high-level military delegation has come to visit China.

 

Cao said the relations between China and Qatar have been progressing smoothly since the two countries forged their diplomatic ties.

 

China appreciates Qatar's adherence to the one-China policy and is willing to further increase bilateral exchange and cooperation in various fields, said Cao.

 

Hamad said Qatar has taken China as one of its best friends, adding that he hoped his current visit could deepen the understanding between the two countries and their armed forces and promote the growth of bilateral ties.

 

(Xinhua News Agency June 21, 2006)