Chinese Defense Minister meets Russian counterpart

Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan talks with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 23, 2016. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

BEIJING, Nov. 23 -- Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan held talks with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Beijing Wednesday.

The Chinese and Russian armed forces have successfully engaged in exchanges and cooperation concerning high-profile visits, joint drills,training and special techniques, said Chang.

The two armed forces have elevated strategic mutual trust and traditional friendship and safeguarded their common interests, he said.

Chang said China was willing to continue to develop military-to-military relations with Russia.

Sergei Shoigu said the comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination between the two countries had hit a new high.

Russia is willing to strengthen pragmatic military cooperation with China in various areas and, with China, safeguard world peace and stability, the Russian defense minister said.