BEIJING - China will work with Malaysia to improve military ties and strengthen practical cooperation, a senior Chinese military officer said on Wednesday.

Vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission Fan Changlong made the remarks while meeting Malaysia's visiting Defense Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

Fan said China-Malaysia relations had become a comprehensive strategic partnership and hoped the two sides could support one another on issues of core interests and major concern.

China will continue to communicate with Malaysia, properly handle sensitive issues and maintain regional stability, Fan said. Militaries of the two countries should adhere to the principle of mutual benefit and realize higher levels of strategic trust and practical cooperation.

Hishammuddin said Malaysia and China are friendly neighbors, armed forces of Malaysia are willing to communicate and cooperate with China's military in more fields.