Chinese senior military officials met with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Republic of Korea (ROK), Kim Kwan-jin, on Tuesday, vowing to strengthen relations between the two countries and their respective armed forces.

"Based on the principle of peaceful coexistence, China will continue to strengthen exchange and cooperation with the ROK in various fields," said Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan at the meeting.

He hailed the rapid development of bilateral relations in the areas of politics, economy and trade, culture, and sci-tech since the two countries established diplomatic relations 15 years ago. Cao went on to note that military-to-military ties had also experienced steady development.

Kim said the ROK attached great importance to its relations with China and the Chinese armed forces. He hopes the two sides will strengthen exchange, enhance mutual trust and understanding, and promote cooperation.

Before meeting Cao, Kim held talks with Chen Bingde, chief of the General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

Chen told Kim that that the cooperation between China and the ROK promoted the development of both countries and also made important contributions towards safeguarding regional and global peace and stability.

He said China was ready to make joint efforts with the ROK to strengthen military-to-military exchange and promote the development of relations between the two countries and their respective armed forces.

Chen also briefed Kim on China's position on regional issues, including the Taiwan issue.

Kim said the ROK appreciated China's important role in safeguarding security and stability in northeast Asia, especially in the six-party talks on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue. He added the ROK was willing to further strengthen exchange and cooperation with Chinese armed forces.

He reiterated the ROK will continue to adhere to the one-China policy.

Kim arrived in Beijing Tuesday for a four-day visit as guest of Chen.

(Xinhua News Agency November 14, 2007)