Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bowardi, Minister of State for Defense Affairs, discussed in Beijing on Wednesday with General Fan Changlong, Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission of China, friendship and military ties between the UAE and China, UAE national news agency WAM reported.

They also tackled overall bilateral relations, and exchanged views on a number of issues of mutual interest, especially international counter-terrorism efforts, as well as boosting stability and peace.

Al Bowardi stressed the strength of strategic relations between the UAE and China, thanks to the keenness of the leaders of both countries to develop cooperation in a way that achieves their aspirations in this respect.

The Chinese official welcomed the visit of Al Bowardi to China, stressing his country's keenness to strengthen the bilateral relations. He noted that the UAE is an important strategic partner to China in the Gulf region.

The UAE Minister also met with Chinese Defense Minister, General Chang Wanquan. They discussed the defense and military ties between the two countries and ways to enhance them. The two officials also tackled a number of issues of common concern.

The two meetings were attended by a number of senior officers from the General Command of the UAE Armed Forces and the UAE Ministry of Defense. On the Chinese side, the meetings were attended by several military officials.