Tuesday, September 9, 2008

China seeks to enhance defense ties with Switzerland

Senior Chinese military official Guo Boxiong said on Monday that China would like to enhance defense and military cooperation with Switzerland.

Guo, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, was speaking in a meeting with Swiss minister of defense, civil protection and sports Samuel Schmid, who attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing Paralympics on Sept. 6.

Guo said cooperation between the two nations on economic, cultural and science issues had been fruitful, as had consultation on international affairs.

He said relations between the two armed forces have developed well, with frequent high-level visits and an annual defense dialogue, as well as substantial exchanges on defense mobilization and civil protection.

"We hope the two sides can expand consensus and deepen cooperation so to push forward bilateral ties."

Guo also wished the Swiss athletes success in the Paralympics.

Schmid congratulated China on a successful Beijing Olympics and wished for an equally extraordinary Paralympics.

He said the Swiss armed forces would endeavor to strengthen ties with China, which would benefit both sides and peace and stability.

Source:Xinhua

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