The Chinese armed forces will work with the South African armed forces to jointly promote bilateral military relations, said Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission Xu Caihou.

When meeting with South African Chief of the Air Force Carlo Gagiano in Beijing Tuesday, Xu reviewed the smooth development of military ties between the two countries and hailed the increasing cooperation and exchanges.

Gagiano echoed Xu as saying a good and close relationship between the two armed forces is very important to South Africa, and he hopes the two sides carry out more exchanges and cooperation.

Xu said he appreciates South Africa's firm adherence to the one China policy as well as its support to China on major international issues.

(Xinhua News Agency July 17, 2007)