Cuba, China pledge to enhance bilateral ties, military cooperation

China and Cuban leaders pledged here Thursday to work together to further push forward their bilateral ties and promote friendly cooperation between the two militaries. The promise came during a meeting between Cuban President Raul Castro and Guo Boxiong, vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission. The two exchanged views on international issues of common concern and both expressed satisfaction with the excellent state of the relations between the two peoples, parties and governments, according to an official press release. The Cuban leader said Guo's visit is of great significance and would certainly enhance bilateral ties. While congratulating China on the remarkable achievements it had made in social and economic development, Castro expressed the hope that both sides would join hands and strengthen exchanges and cooperation to lift bilateral relations to a new high. For his part, Guo noted that Cuba is playing an increasingly important role in international affairs and has made positive contribution to world peace and development. To promote dialogue and communication and enhance coordination and cooperation between the two sides not only conforms to fundamental interests of the two countries and the two peoples, but also is conducive to safeguarding world peace and promoting common development, he said. Guo said China always sees Cuba as a trustworthy friend and a brother in need, adding that China is willing to work together with Cuba to constantly push forward the bilateral friendly and cooperative relationship.