Chinese Minister of Defense Cao Gangchuan held talks with Bakri Hassan Salih, minister of defense of Sudan, in Beijing Friday.  

Cao, also vice chairman of the Chinese Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said the two countries enjoyed sound development of friendly, cooperative relations with fruitful cooperation in various fields.

On military relations with the Sudan, he said the growth of bilateral military ties is also satisfactory.

An frequent exchange of high-level visits has effectively increased the mutual understanding and friendship of the two armed forces, he noted.

He expressed his belief that the bilateral relations between the two armies will continue to grow in the future, with the joint efforts of the two sides.

Cao also thanked the Sudanese government for its persistent efforts in maintaining its one-China stance.

Salih said Sudan valued the all-round friendly, cooperative relations with China, adding that his current trip to China is aimed to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation of the two armed forces.

Salih underlined that Sudan would continue to support China's great cause of reunification.

(Xinhua News Agency December 6, 2003)