BEIJING — Defense Minister Chang Wanquan met with visiting Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force Pasquale Preziosa in Beijing on May 22.

China-Italy relations have steered onto a fast track since the establishment of all-around strategic relationship in 2004 while military-to-military ties have developed smoothly, Chang said.

China is willing to enhance understanding and trust between the two countries and boost practical cooperation for the development of the two militaries, Chang said.

Preziosa hailed the traditional friendship and close cooperation between the two militaries, hoping both sides create more conditions for better communication and cooperation.