ANKARA, March 11 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Embassy in Turkey announced Wednesday the launch of the first Chinese language training course for Turkish Armed Forces personnel.

Ten Turkish soldiers will participate in the full-time course, which lasts for five months, with the help of Chinese teachers from the Confucius Institute of the Middle East Technical University.

Chinese military attache in Turkey Chen Qingsong, who attended the launching ceremony, hailed the development of Chinese-Turkish military ties, adding that the Chinese language course will allow Turkish soldiers to learn more about China.

It will also promote mutual trust and boost the friendly relations between the two countries, said Chen.

Shi Ruilin, Chinese cultural counselor in Turkey, pointed out that language is an important tool and foundation for cultural exchange, and China is willing to continue to provide support and help to the Chinese language course for Turkish army.