Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian met with President of the Swiss Confederation Adolf Ogi and his party Tuesday in Beijing.

Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said that China and Switzerland enjoy a traditional friendship.

He said that developing friendly cooperation between the two countries is not only in line with the fundamental interests of the peoples of the two countries, but also conducive to the peace and stability of the world.

Chi noted that the friendship between the two countries has been developing and the exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries have also been satisfactory.

China is confident about the development of the relations between the two countries and their armed forces, he said.

Chi said that he believes Ogi's visit will further relations between the two countries and the two armies.

Ogi, who is also minister of national defense, civil defense and sports, said that Switzerland is proud to have established diplomatic ties with China 50 years ago.

He said that he believes the relations between his country and China and the two armies will be further strengthened.

The two sides also exchanged views on the international situation, military building, and other issues of common concern.

(People’s Daily 09/12/2000)