BEIJING — State Councilor and Defense Minister Chang Wanquan held talks with visiting Minister of Defense of Timor-Leste Cirilo Cristovao in Beijing on Oct 19.

Hailing their partnership, Chang said that, guided by President Xi Jinping’s ideas of “amity, sincerity, mutual benefits and inclusiveness” toward neighboring countries, China is willing to pursue an improved relationship between the two countries’ armed forces.

The Chinese side is ready to push forward cooperation with Timor-Leste through visits by military delegations, personnel training and other activities, according to Chang.

Cristovao said Timor-Leste appreciates China’s support and assistance, stressing that Timor-Leste is willing to strengthen military-to-military exchanges and cooperation with China.

Last weekend, Cristovao attended the sixth Xiangshan Forum, a high-profile security forum attended by about 500 defense officials and scholars from around the world.