The Chinese armed forces are ready to consolidate and develop relations with the Romanian armed forces, said Xu Caihou, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, on Wednesday.

 

Xu was speaking in a meeting with visiting Romanian secretary of state and chief of the Department for Armaments Ioan Ion.

 

Xu said the relationship between China and Romania has continuously developed since the two established diplomatic ties 57 years ago.

 

He said the Chinese armed forces are willing to make joint efforts with the Romanian side to consolidate and develop military ties.

 

Xu said he appreciated the Romanian government's adherence to the one-China principle.

 

Xu also briefed Ion on China's domestic construction and efforts to build a harmonious society and world.

 

Ion described the relationship as "very special," saying Romania is one of the first group of countries to establish diplomatic relations with China.

 

He said China has made remarkable contributions to resolving major international problems, and the Romanian armed forces hoped to strengthen cooperation.

 

Ion said the Romanian government will adhere to the one-China principle.

 

Ion arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for an official goodwill visit. He will also visit Guangdong Province in south China and Shanghai.

 

(Xinhua News Agency November 2, 2006)