Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan held talks with his German counterpart Franz Josef Jung in Beijing on Wednesday, agreeing to further develop relations between the two armed forces.

 

"The relationship has continuously deepened with the smooth development of relations between the two countries," said Cao, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor.

 

Cao said the two armed forces maintained high-level exchanges, and exchange and dialogue mechanisms are functioning well.

 

Jung said he thought it was important to develop relations between the two armed forces and Germany was willing to work with China to promote exchanges and cooperation.

 

Jung said Germany supported the one-China policy and hoped to see a peaceful settlement of the Taiwan issue.

 

The two also touched on international issues, including the six-party talks on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, the Iran nuclear issue and the Darfur issue, according to the Chinese Defense Ministry.

 

Jung met with Vice President Zeng Qinghong and Chief of General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Liang Guanglie before meeting Cao.

 

This is Jung's first visit to China since his appointment as Defense Minister in November 2005. He will conclude his two-day official visit on Thursday.

 

(Xinhua News Agency April 19, 2007)