Sri Lanka Army Commander Jagath Jayasuriya and China's Minister of Defense Liang Guanglie on Thursday pledged to boost military cooperation between their respective countries.

Liang hailed the healthy development of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1957, adding that both countries share common views on a variety of important international and regional issues.

The development of Sino-Sri Lankan military ties has made continuous progress in recent years, which complies with not only the fundamental interests of both countries, but also with the maintenance of regional peace and stability, Liang said.

Liang said China is willing to make joint efforts with Sri Lanka to boost bilateral relations.

Jayasuriya expressed appreciation for the support China has extended to Sri Lanka, stating that his country will maintain policies that are friendly toward China.

Sri Lanka is willing to work with China to boost bilateral military ties to a higher level, he added.( Xinhua)