BEIJING, Oct. 16 -- Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission Xu Qiliang met with Sudanese Defense Minister Abdel Rahim Mohamed Hussein in Beijing on Thursday.

The two countries share a long-term friendship, said Xu, noting that the Chinese armed forces have always attached great importance to developing cooperation with the Sudanese armed forces.

He said China is willing to work with Sudan to expand new areas for cooperation, so as to advance friendly ties between the two armed forces.

Rahim said he appreciated China's assistance to Sudan's economic development and social stability, and hoped to deepen bilateral cooperation through his visit.

Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan held talks with his Sudanese counterpart later Thursday.

Chang, also a state councilor, said China appreciates Sudan's firm support for China in major issues, stressing that the country is willing to consolidate friendship with Sudan and expand bilateral practical exchange and cooperation.