The Chinese side will work with the Thai side to further promote the bilateral friendly cooperation between the two armed forces, and the strategic cooperation between the two countries, said a senior Chinese military official in Beijing Monday.

 

Cao Gangchuan, Chinese defense minister, told visiting Supreme Commander of the Thai Armed Forces Ruengroj Mahasaranond that the Chinese government will continue to strengthen bilateral coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs with Thailand.

 

Cao, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, said the China-Thailand relations maintain a stable development and the two sides have achieved fruitful cooperation in various fields including economy, military and culture.

 

The development of bilateral relations is not only in the interest of the two peoples, but also promotes the regional peace and development, he said.

 

Ruengroj said the two countries are traditional friendly neighbors, and maintained long-term friendly relationship of cooperation. The Thai armed forces is willing to continually develop exchanges and cooperation with the Chinese side.

 

Ruengroj is invited by Chief of the People's Liberation Army General Staff Liang Guanglie for a six-day visit to China from May 20 to 25.

 

(Xinhua News Agency May 22, 2006)