Chinese Minister of National Defense Cao Gangchuan left Beijing Monday morning for an official goodwill visit to Pakistan, India and Thailand. 

Cao, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, was invited by Pakistan Defense Minister Rao Sikandar Iqbal, Indian Minister of Defense George Fernandes and Thai Minister of Defense Chettha Thanajaro.

During his visit, Cao will meet governmental and military leaders of the three countries, and exchange views with them on issues of common concern.

(Xinhua News Agency March 22, 2004)