Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan said on Wednesday the Chinese armed forces are ready to further deepen cooperation with Pakistan.

 

Cao, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, made the remarks during a meeting with Pakistan Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Afzal Tahir.

 

Cao said the friendship between the two governments, the two peoples and the two armed forces have always developed steadily despite the great changes in the international situation.

 

He noted that this year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan.

 

Cao said China is ready to make joint efforts with Pakistan to promote bilateral cooperation in various fields and further develop ties between the two militaries in a bid to safeguard world peace and stability and promote common development.

 

Tahir said the Pakistan government, people and armed forces have always cherished friendship with the Chinese government, people and armed forces.

 

He said Pakistan will try its best to consolidate and develop relations with China.

 

Hu Yanlin, political commissar of Navy of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, was present at the meeting.

 

(Xinhua News Agency May 18, 2006)