BEIJING- A Chinese military official said Friday that China will boost cooperation with foreign armies in 2012 to maintain peace in the world.

Qian Lihua, director of the Foreign Affairs Office with the Chinese National Defense Ministry, made the remarks during an annual banquet with foreign military attaches and deputy military attaches stationed in China.

The director said the Chinese military is always committed to making joint efforts with foreign armies to enhance mutual trust and build consensus in the area of security.

The exchange with other armies has been more frequent while the pragmatic cooperation has been continuously extended in 2011, Qian said, adding that China has made new contribution to the maintenance of international peace, security and development.

Chen Bingde, chief of the General Staff of the People's Liberation Army, attended the banquet with over 100 foreign military attaches, deputy military attaches, and their spouses stationed in China.