Senior PLA official holds talks with Nepalese Army Chief

BEIJING, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) -- Chief of the General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Chen Bingde held talks with visiting Chief of Army Staff for the Nepalese Army Chhatraman Singh Gurung on Monday afternoon.

Chen, who wrapped up an official visit to Nepal in March, said China and Nepal have enjoyed good relations since ancient times, adding that people from the two countries share a deep friendship.

"China approves of Nepal's firm stance on issues relating to Tibet and heartily appreciates Nepal's sincere cooperation in that area," Chen said.

He expressed the hope that the two sides will continue to mutually assist each other, cope with difficulties and challenges and safeguard bilateral common interests.

"China will stick to the policy of 'building friendships and partnerships with neighboring countries' and work with Nepal to become good neighbors, friends and partners," Chen said.

Gurung, who is in China for an official visit, stressed that Nepal views China as a "friend for all time."

"Nepal has always adhered to the one-China policy and will never allow any force to make use of the Nepalese territory to engage in anti-China activities," Gurung said.

He said the two countries' militaries have cooperated well in recent years and vowed to work with China to continuously enhance Nepal-China relations.

The two sides also exchanged views on military cooperation in the fields of medical treatment and non-traditional security.

Gurung is scheduled to meet with Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission Xu Caihou on Tuesday.