The Chinese armed forces are ready to enhance the military exchanges and cooperation with Britain, Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie said in Beijing Friday.

Liang, also a state councilor, made the remarks when meeting with visiting Vice-Chief of the Defence Staff of the British Armed Forces, Timothy John Granville-Chapman.

"China regards Britain as an important partner of cooperation and thinks highly of the role that Britain has played in the European and international affairs. China is willing to work with Britain to promote the stable and sound development of China-Britain relations," Liang said.

Liang also hailed the further development of relations between the two armed forces in recent years, citing frequent high-level visits, more technological exchanges and increased personnel training.

"China hopes to make joint efforts with Britain to strengthen the bilateral military exchanges and cooperation," he added.

Granville-Chapman said that Britain and China have mutual benefits on many issues. Britain expected to cement mutual trust, intensify high-level exchanges and enhance cooperation in various fields with China, so as to advance the bilateral ties.

(Xinhua News Agency April 3, 2009)