(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-05-26 16:18

BEIJING  -- Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie met with visiting Commander-in-Chief of the Air Force of Chile Ricardo Ortega here Monday, pledging to make joint efforts with Chile to step up the friendly cooperation between the two militaries.

Liang, also state councilor, applauded the steady development of the China-Chile relations since the two sides forged diplomatic ties in 1970, with frequent high-level exchanges, increased political mutual trust and fruitful cooperation in various fields.

Hailing the smooth development momentum of the military relations, Liang said he hoped to work jointly with Chile to push forward the friendly cooperation between the two armed forces.

Liang explained China's policy of adhering to peaceful development and its national defense policy that is defensive in nature.

Liang also briefed Ortega on the current situation of the May 12earthquake in Sichuan Province and the relief efforts of the Chinese government and people.

Echoing Liang's words, Ortega spoke highly of the role the Chinese Communist Party, government and army played in tackling the earthquake.

He said Chile is confident that China is able to overcome the disaster,hold the upcoming Olympic Games successfully and maintain its rapid economic growth.

Ortega said the Chilean armed forces are ready to promote friendly cooperation and exchanges with China, especially the cooperation between the air forces of the two countries.