Defense ministers of China and Singapore stressed in Singapore Thursday that there is a great potential for the two armed forces to enhance their relations of friendship and cooperation.

 

Visiting Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan said during a meeting with his Singaporean counterpart Teo Chee Hean that bilateral relations between China and Singapore have grown significantly since they established diplomatic ties 16 years ago.

 

The two countries have seen frequent exchange of high-level visits and fruitful cooperation in various fields such as economy and trade, science and technology, as well as culture and education, Cao said.

 

He added that the scope of the exchanges between the two armies has been ceaselessly enlarged over the years and their coordination and cooperation in dealing with major international and regional issues have contributed to the peace, stability and prosperity of the region.

 

Noting the great potential for bilateral cooperation between China and Singapore, Cao said that the two sides should spare common efforts to continue enhancing ties between the two countries as well as between the two armies.

 

Cao, who is also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of China and a state councilor, expressed appreciation of the Singapore government's sustained adherence to one-China policy and its support to China's reunification cause.

 

Agreeing with Cao's remarks, Teo said that Singapore and China have enjoyed friendly bilateral ties and the friendship between the two peoples is long-lasting. The exchanges and cooperation between the two nations and between the two armed forces have rendered good results.

 

He said that the Singapore government will adhere to its one-China policy and will promote the friendly and cooperative ties between the two defense establishments.

 

Cao arrived here earlier on the day for a three-day official goodwill visit to the city state at Teo's invitation.

 

Teo held a welcome ceremony to receive his Chinese counterpart before their talks.

 

This is the fourth leg of Cao's tour to five Asian countries, which also include North Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, and South Korea.

 

(Xinhua News Agency April 14, 2006)