Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan held talks in Beijing Monday with his Slovakian counterpart Frantisek Kasicky, exchanging views on enhancing cooperation between the two armed forces.

Cao, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, said China and Slovakia have kept frequent exchange of visits in recent years, with intensified cooperation in various fields.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army values its friendship with the Slovakian armed forces, and would like to develop the relations on the basis of mutual respect and benefit, and equality, said Cao.

Cao also briefed on China's defense policy, building of its armed forces and its stance on the Taiwan issue.

Kasicky said he hopes the two armed forces could conduct cooperation in the anti-terror, peace-keeping and traditional Chinese medicine sectors, so as to promote the smooth relations between the two sides.

He reiterated Slovakia's firm adherence to the one-China policy.

Before the talks, Cao held a welcoming ceremony in honor of Kasicky and his delegation.

(Xinhua News Agency July 2, 2007)