Chinese defense minister stresses friendly ties with Sudanese armed forces

BEIJING, July 19, 2005 (Xinhua) — Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan stressed here Tuesday the friendly ties with Sudanese armed forces during a meeting with Abbas Arabi Abdalla, chief of general staff of Sudanese armed forces.

Cao, also vice-chairman of the Chinese Central Military Commission and state councilor, said China and Sudan enjoy traditional friendship that has survived international vicissitudes. The two nations have conducted effective friendly cooperation in various fields since the establishment of diplomatic ties, he said.

Cao expressed gratitude for the Sudanese government’s adherence to the one-China policy and firm support to China on major international issues.

He said the relations between the two armed forces have maintained a smooth development with increased exchanges and cooperation. China is willing to make joint efforts with Sudan to push forward the bilateral friendly cooperation, he added.

Cao also briefed Abbas on China’s domestic situation and army building.

Abbas said the relations between Sudan and China have a long history and Sudan highly appreciated China’s long-term support and assistance. He said he hopes the two nations and the two armed forces will continue to enhance cooperation in an all-round way so as to further boost the bilateral relations.