The Chinese army will continue its efforts to enhance the friendly cooperative relations with Zimbabwe's armed forces, said Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan in Beijing Tuesday.  

Cao, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, made the remark in a meeting with C.G. Chiwenga, commander of Zimbabwe's defense forces.

Cao said China and Zimbabwe had carried out fruitful cooperation in various fields since they forged diplomatic relations.

China appreciates the Zimbabwean government's adherence to the one-China policy and its consistent support for China on the human rights issue and other international issues.

Chiwenga said the Zimbabwean government and people will continue to adhere to the one-China principle.

Earlier, Liang Guanglie, chief of General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), held talks with Chiwenga.

Liang, also a member of the Chinese Central Military Commission, said the Chinese army attach importance to its friendly cooperative relations with the Zimbabwean army, and will actively promote the exchanges and cooperation between the two sides in various fields.

(Xinhua News Agency March 17, 2004)