China, Russia pledge to strengthen military co-op

Chinese Defence Minister Chang Wanquan (R) meets with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu in Beijing, capital of China, Nov 18, 2014. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan held talks with visiting Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu on Tuesday to discuss practical bilateral military cooperation.

Chang, also a state councilor, said the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership has sound development, with the two countries engaging in frequent high-level exchanges and continuing to deepen mutual political trust.

Chang said their two militaries have pragmatic cooperation in the fields of high-level visits, joint exercises and professional communication.

China is willing to make joint efforts with Russia to implement the consensus reached by both countries' leaders, promote bilateral military-to-military ties to a higher level and positively maintain regional peace and stability, Chang said.

Shoigu said Russia attaches great importance to bilateral ties and wishes to strengthen practical cooperation with China in various areas including military ties to contribute to regional security and stability.