BEIJING, Sept. 12 -- Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan met his Cypriot counterpart on Friday, vowing to strengthen military ties.

China is keen on more exchanges and cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries, Chang told Christoforos Fokaides.

Fokaides said Cyprus attaches high importance to relations with China and is willing to cooperate more in all areas including military affairs.

The two ministers also discussed international and regional issues of common concern.

Fokaides was appointed defense minister of Cyprus in April after the death of predecessor Tasos Mitsopoulos.