BEIJING - State Councilor and Defense Minister Liang Guanglie vowed to increase China's cooperation with the Portuguese army in Beijing on Monday.

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Liang made the remarks during a meeting with Portuguese Army Chief of Staff Jose Ramalho, who is currently conducting an official goodwill visit to China at the invitation of Liang.

Liang hailed China-Portugal relations, saying that they have been growing smoothly with the establishment of frequent high-level exchanges and rapidly growing cooperation in the areas of economics and trade.

Liang said China attaches great importance to its comprehensive strategic partnership with Portugal and is willing to make joint efforts with Portugal to promote bilateral relations.

Liang said that ties between the armies of both nations have increased in recent times, stating that both sides have conducted exchanges in fields such as combat training and military science.

Liang said that China has a positive attitude concerning the development of military ties, vowing to work together with the Portuguese side for a better military relationship.

Ramalho echoed Liang's remarks by saying that Portugal values the relationship between the two countries and the two armies. Ramalho said that he hopes that both sides can continue to strengthen their cooperation.