China, France pledge to deepen military ties

Chinese and French military leaders have pledged to deepen army relations during the 10th strategic dialogue between the countries' defense ministries. The two-day dialogue, starting here Wednesday, was co-chaired by Deputy Chief of General Staff of the People's Liberation Army of China Ma Xiaotian and Deputy Chief of Staff of the French Army Philippe Combes. During the dialogue, the two parties discussed defense policies and army construction, regional security and international hot issues, as well as furthering China-France military relations. The two sides agreed the dialogue mechanism was favorable for deepening strategic mutual trust and broadening areas for cooperation. It was also of positive significance for the two countries in building a new, mature and stable comprehensive strategic partnership based on mutual trust and mutual benefit and with a global perspective. The next round of the strategic dialogue will be held in Beijing in 2012.