China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have made great progress in developing their political, economic, cultural and military relations, said Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian in Beijing Sunday.
Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, made the remarks in a meeting with former ROK National Defense Minister Cho Sung-Tae and a delegation from the ROK 21st Century Military Institute.
China-ROK cooperative partnership has entered a new stage, which is of great importance for the peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and the world at large, Chi said.
Chi noted that China has consistently made all-out efforts for the peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula and sincerely looks forward to the improvement of north-south relations.
The delegation came to China at the invitation of the China Association for International Friendly Contacts.
(Xinhua News Agency June 3, 2002)
