Zhang Wannian, vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission (CMC), met with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Ilya Klebanov this morning. They discussed bilateral relations as well as regional and international security issues of common concern.

Zhang said that China and Russia have a long history of friendship. Sino-Russian relations conforms with the fundamental interest of the peoples of China and Russia as well as peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and the rest of the world. Zhang said that Sino-Russian strategic coordinative partnership of equality and trust has been further promoted and friendly cooperation between the armed forces of China and Russia has been good. "China is confident that military relations between the two countries will develop further in the new century."

Zhang said he believes that Klebanov's visit to China will further promote and develop Sino-Russian cooperation in all fields.

Klebanov said that Sino-Russian cooperation is an integral part of the strategic partnership. "Sino-Russian cooperation enjoys good relations, because it is established on the principles of respecting sovereignty, mutual trust, equality and mutual benefit", he added.

Cao Gangchuan, member of the Central Military Commission and director of the General Armament Department of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), Liu Jibin, minister in charge of the Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense, Xiong Guangkai, deputy chief of the PLA general staff, and Russian ambassador to China Igor A. Rogachev attended the meeting.