The Chinese armed forces value their relations with the Kenyan armed forces, and are willing to enhance exchanges and cooperation, said Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan.

 

Cao, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, made the remarks when meeting with visiting Kenyan Defense Minister Njenga Karume in Beijing yesterday.

 

Cao said China and Kenya, both developing countries, shared a deep friendship and fruitful cooperation in the political, economic and cultural fields. Leaders of the two countries conducted frequent exchanges and shared similar views on many major international issues.

 

"China is grateful for Kenya's adherence to the one-China policy and support on some international affairs such as the human rights issue," Cao said.

 

Karume said Kenya was willing to develop relations with China, including exchanges and cooperation between the two armed forces. He also reiterated Kenya's firm support of the one-China policy.

 

Karume arrived in Beijing on August 23 for an official goodwill visit at the invitation of Cao.

 

(Xinhua News Agency August 25, 2006)