China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Thursday lauded traditional friendship and agreed to step up cooperation between the two countries and two armed forces to a higher level.

"China and the DPRK have respected and helped each other for years," said Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie, citing consolidated and deepened cooperation and precious friendship between the two countries.

Liang made the remarks in his meeting with a visiting DPRK military delegation led by Vice Minister of DPRK People's Armed Forces Pyon In Son.

Both China and the DPRK are facing tasks of promoting their own development, and safeguarding common interests and the regional peace and stability, Liang said.

China would like to work with the DPRK to strengthen exchanges and enhance coordination for the further development of relations between the two countries and two militaries, Liang added.

Pyon told Liang that the DPRK side wishes to further its friendly cooperation with China in various fields and lauded the friendship created by the old generations of leaders of both countries.

Pyon said his delegation had witnessed achievements China has made in its socialist construction and military development during the trip.

The delegation, invited by Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), will also pay a visit to southwest China's Yunnan Province.