China-New Zealand Armed Forces Keep up Good Momentum in Their Exchanges

The armed forces between China and New Zealand have kept up a good momentum in their exchanges and China is willing to join efforts with the armed forces of New Zealand in promoting relations in various fields, said Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian Monday in Beijing.

Chi, also vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission and a state councilor, made the remarks while holding talks with New Zealand Defense Minister Mark Burton.

Chi briefed Burton on China's independent foreign policy of peace. "China is willing to develop relations with other countries on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence," he said.

Chi said that China-New Zealand ties have been developing soundly since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, and that there has been good cooperation in many fields.

China opposes hegemonism and power politics, and is willing to make unremitting efforts to help push forward the process of world multipolarization, he said.

Burton said that while forces for peace are growing in the world, international security still faces many challenges, and that New Zealand is ready to make contributions to regional peace and stability.

Chi and Burton also exchanged views on world and regional situation and other issues including counter-terrorism.

PLA Navy Fleet's Voyage to New Zealand

A Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy fleet has just concluded its goodwill visit to Australia and New Zealand.

During the trip, the Chinese crewmen were in close contact with their Australian and New Zealand counterparts, and some overseas Chinese visited the warships.






People's Daily Online --- http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/