China is willing to push military relations with Saudi Arabia to a new level, Defense Minister Chang Wanquan said on Aug 31.

While meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Chang said that high-ranking military officials of the two sides have had frequent mutual visits in recent years, with good cooperation in areas such as equipment technology and personnel training.

Mohammed, also Saudi Arabia’s defense minister, said that China is an important and reliable partner to Saudi Arabia, and he is willing to strengthen strategic cooperation with China, including in military areas.

Mohammed will attend the G20 Summit in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou, scheduled for Sept 4-5.