Liang Guanglie, member of the Central Military Commission and chief of general staff of the PLA, held talks with Masire, the visiting commander of the Botswanian Defense Force, yesterday afternoon in Beijing.

　　Liang Guanglie said that since China and Botswana established diplomatic relations in 1975, the two countries have gradually expanded exchanges and cooperation in political, economic, cultural and other fields. China appreciates the support rendered to her by the Botswanian Government on the issues of Taiwan and human rights, etc. The Chinese armed forces cherishes the friendship with the Botswanian Defense Force, and is confidant that the friendly cooperative relations between the two militaries would surely be further developed under the common efforts of the two sides.

　　Liang Guanglie also briefed his guests on China's independent foreign policy of peace and the army building.

　　Masire said that the Botswanian side appreciates the long-term support and assistance rendered to Botswana by China in various sectors and is willing to continue to strengthen exchange and cooperation with the Chinese side in personnel training and other fields.

　　Before the talks, Liang Guanglie held a welcome ceremony for Masire.

　　Masire arrived in China on August 26 to kick off his official visit to China at the invitation of Liang Guanglie.

　　By Lu Desheng

　　(Aug 30, PLA Daily)