Chinese CMC Vice-Chairman Holds Talks with Australian Defence MinisterChina's Central Military Commission (CMC) Vice-Chairman Zhang Wannian Monday held talks with Australian Defence Minister Peter Reith.Reith said that Australia is willing to consolidate and further develop its ties with China and China's People's Liberation Army. The growth of the ties conforms to the fundamental interests of the two peoples and is conductive to the peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region. Zhang said that China is willing to make a joint effort with Australia to enhance mutual understanding, promote bilateral friendly cooperation and advance the stable and sound growth of the military ties between the two countries in the new century. With regard to the Taiwan issue, Zhang noted that China's basic principle to resolve the issue is "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems." But China would not undertake to renounce the use of force, Zhang said. Reith reiterated that the Australian government will continue to stick to the one-China policy. Zhang and Reith also exchanged views on other issues of common concern. |
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