Chinese Defense Minister Meets British GuestsDeveloping friendly relations of cooperation between China and Britain not only conforms to the fundamental interests of the people of the two countries, but is also conducive to the peace, stability and development of the world, said Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian Monday.Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central military Commission and a state councilor, made the remark in a meeting with the Chief of the Naval Staff Nigel Eissenhigh of Britain, and his party. Chi said China and Britain have maintained fruitful cooperation in the political, economic and trade, scientific and technological and cultural fields since the two countries established diplomatic relations, particularly since Hong Kong's return to the motherland in 1997. He said China is ready to make joint efforts with Britain to build long-term friendly relations of cooperation oriented towards the 21st century based on the principles of "mutual respect, seeking common ground while reserving differences, equality, mutual benefits and common progress." Chi said, the Chinese armed forces wish to develop friendly relations with the British armed forces. The two countries' armed forces have maintained frequent exchange of high-level visits and sound cooperation in various fields in recent years, he said. He recalled his visit to Britain early last year, and expressed belief that Eissenhigh's current visit will further the existing friendly relations between the two countries armed forces. Eissenhigh said that China has developed rapidly. The British government and armed forces attach importance to developing friendly relations with China, and are ready to push forward the exchange and cooperation between the two countries and their armed forces in the new century. |
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