China, Canada sign initiative on military cooperation

BEIJING, June 3 (Xinhua) -- China and Canada signed an initiative on military cooperation as defense ministers of the two countries held talks in Beijing on Monday.

Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan and his Canadian counterpart Peter G. Mackay had in-depth and candid talks on bilateral military relations, the international and regional security situations as well as other issues of common concern, according to a written statement.

The two sides held that China and Canada are important countries to the Asia-Pacific region and bear common responsibilities in safeguarding peace, stability and prosperity in the region, it said.

The two sides will work to push forward bilateral military relations. They will also continue to maintain high-level contacts, it noted, adding that Mackay has invited Chang to visit Canada this year.

They agreed to establish a work meeting mechanism between the two defense ministries, in order to exchange views on topics of common interest and plans for defense exchanges, the statement said.

The two sides decided to sign an initiative on cooperation plans between the armed forces of the two countries, which will provide guidance for bilateral military exchanges and ensure that the exchanges are reciprocal, appropriate and sustainable, it noted.

The statement also said that the two sides will continue to deepen pragmatic cooperation between the two armed forces.

Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao also met with Mackay on Monday.

During their meeting, Li said the two countries have no disputes on fundamental interests and their common interests far outweigh their differences.

To promote the sound and stable development of the bilateral strategic partnership, he called on both sides to further implement the important agreements reached by leaders of the two countries, increase political mutual trust, accommodate each other's concerns and expand mutually beneficial cooperation.

Mackay said he hopes for more exchange opportunities between the two armed forces.

He called on the two armed forces to make positive contributions to world peace and security.

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