Minister of National Defense, Cao Gangchuan, said in Beijing Thursday that China is to make concerted efforts with Finland to promote the military ties of the two countries.

Cao made the remarks at a meeting with Finish Defense Minister Seppo Kaariainen.

He said the bilateral relations between China and Finland have entered a stage of comprehensive, rapid and deep development.

He also briefed the guest on China's defense policy and reiterated China's stance on Taiwan issue.

Kaariainen said the two sides have conducted fruitful cooperation and exchanges in the economic, political and military spheres since China and Finland established diplomatic relations 55 years ago.

Finland and China are similar since both attach great importance to stability, said Kaariainen, adding that Finland is willing to join hands with China to make contributions to world peace and stability.

(Xinhua News Agency October 21, 2005)