China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have made new progress and remarkable achievements in developing relations since the establishment of their diplomatic ties 10 years ago, said Chinese Minister of National Defense Chi Haotian in Beijing Tuesday.
Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, made this remark when meeting with Kwon Young-hyo, vice-minister of the ROK Ministry of National Defense, and his party.
With joint efforts of both sides, said Chi, the exchanges between the two military forces have also been increasingly deepened and expanded.
The healthy and smooth development of bilateral relations is not only in the interests of both countries, but also benefits peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, he added.
Chi briefed Kwon on China's position on the Korean Peninsula issue. He said he hoped that the two Korean sides would continue to improve relations through dialogue and negotiation, in a bid to maintain peace and stability on the peninsula and eventually bring about a peaceful reunification.
Chi also expounded China's stance on the Taiwan issue and appreciated the ROK's adherence to the "one China" stand.
Kwon Young-hyo said that relations between the two countries and the two armed forces have developed rapidly over recent years.
The ROK side values China's positive efforts towards maintaining peace and stability on the peninsula, he said and hoped that exchanges and cooperation between the two armed forces would be further strengthened.
Before the meeting, Qian Shugen, deputy chief of the general staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, held talks with Kwon.
(Xinhua News Agency August 27, 2002)
