BEIJING, March 27 -- The search for the missing Malaysia Airlines plane has showcased the need to strengthen international cooperation in non-traditional security areas, said a spokesman for China's Defense Ministry here on Thursday.

Geng Yansheng told a regular press briefing that international cooperation in this regard will continue to be an important part of Chinese military forces' external exchanges.

"China is working with other countries on information sharing, joint searches, logistics and supply," Geng said, referring to the operation to find Malaysian Airlines flight MH370, which went missing on its way from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing on March 8.

He added that China's military will continue to strengthen mutual trust and coordination with all sides to increase their capability to cope with new challenges and threats.