BEIJING, Feb. 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie met visiting Thai Army Commander-in-Chief Anupong Paochinda, and vowed to further promote bilateral military ties Monday.

    Liang, also a state councilor, spoke highly of Thailand's support for China on the Taiwan and Tibet issues as well as the Beijing Olympic Games.

    "China and Thailand are friendly to each other. In recent years, the bilateral political trust has been enhanced and notable results have been made in economic cooperation. Moreover, the cooperation of the two military forces has been promoted continuously," he said.

    Anupong said that Thailand attached great importance to bilateral ties.

    The two sides pledged to maintain and enhance military exchanges and cooperation as an important part of relations.