Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie said?in Beijing?Wednesday that China will step up military exchanges with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Liang, also a State Councilor, made the remarks while meeting with Hamad Mohammed Thani Al Rumaithy, Chief of the General Staff of the UAE Armed Forces.

Liang spoke highly of China-UAE ties, saying the two countries have maintained close political exchanges, increased trade cooperation and kept coordination in international and regional affairs since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1984.

"China highly appreciates the UAE adhering to the one-China policy as well as its support in other issues concerning China's core interests," said Liang.

China will work closely with the UAE to further cooperation between the two militaries, Liang added.

Rumaithy said he is seeking new cooperative fields between the two countries and militaries during his visit to China.