Ukraine seeks to expand military cooperation with China: official

KIEV, July 5 (Xinhua) -- Kiev seeks to further expand military cooperation with China, says a Ukrainian defense official.

Olexandr Motuzyanyk, acting head of press and information department at the Defense Ministry, said that Ukraine attaches great importance to developing friendly relations and cooperation with Beijing in various spheres, including the military.

"Intensive political dialogue primarily between top management of both countries promotes conditions for the development of military and military-technical cooperation between Ukraine and China," Motuzyanyk said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

The visit of then Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Liang Guanglie to Ukraine in January has resulted in significant achievements for the ties and cooperation between the two countries, he said.

"The parties have agreed to implement concrete measures to deepen bilateral cooperation in promising areas," Motuzyanyk said.

To further enhance bilateral cooperation, the two sides are planning to intensify high-level visits and military-political consultations, he added.

Meanwhile, Motuzyanyk highlighted military-technical cooperation between the two countries.

Motuzyanyk also said that Ukraine, which has accumulated extensive experience in international peacekeeping activities since 1992, is willing to exchange ideas and knowledge on peacekeeping operations and maritime security with China.