State Councilor and Defense Minister Chang Wanquan called on China and Britain to upgrade relations between their militaries during a meeting with the head of the Royal Navy in Beijing on Jan 20.

Both militaries are expected to “strengthen high-level interaction, institutionalize exchanges and cooperation in professional domains”, Chang said when meeting with British First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff Adm. Sir George Zambellas.

A wider agenda, an innovative approach and a deepening level of cooperation are expected to boost the military relationship, Chang added.

Zambellas said the exchanges and cooperation between the two navies are helpful to boosting mutual understanding and trust.

Britain is ready to deepen military-to-military cooperation, jointly combat terrorism and contribute to maintaining world peace, according to Zambellas.