Article Posted on : - Aug 28, 2013

BEIJING (PTI): China has sought to firm up its military ties with Bangladesh, expressing willingness to strengthen cooperation as the Communist giant looks to increase its strategic footprints in India's backyard.

The two militaries pledged to strengthen defence ties during a meeting between Chinese Defence Minister Chang Wanquan and Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff Gen Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan, here on Tuesday.

Chang told Gen Karim that China attaches great importance to developing relations with Bangladesh and is committed to cementing the two sides' comprehensive partnership of cooperation, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

He said the Chinese military is willing to strengthen cooperation in all fields and at all levels with the Bangladeshi side as part of efforts for the two countries' common development as well as safeguarding regional peace and stability.

Thanking China for its support and assistance for Bangladesh, Gen Karim said his country is willing to advance the two militaries' relations through further cooperation.

China in recent years has beefed up its political, military and trade relations with almost all of India's neighbours in South Asia increasing its strategic presence in the region.