Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian met in Beijing Tuesday with Johan Ivar Hedersedt, commander of the Swedish armed forces.
Chi said that the Chinese government values its relations with Sweden, and developing bilateral ties is in both their fundamental interests and contributes to regional and world peace and stability.
Chi, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said that China is ready to further lasting and stable relations with Sweden on the basis of mutual respect, equality and reciprocity.
The defense minister said that Sino-Swedish relations have a good foundation, and the two militaries have had top-level contact since the 1970s.
He said Hedersedt's visit begins a new chapter in friendly relations between the armed forces of the two countries, and China will further the cooperation with the Swedish armed forces in all fields.
Hedersedt said that Chinese soldiers impress him greatly and Sweden hopes to enhance cooperation with Chinese armed forces, especially in peace-keeping operations.
(Xinhua News Agency June 26, 2002)
