The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) and Bulgarian military forces should cooperate closely in future and give a big boost to China-Bulgaria relations, said a senior PLA officer today.

"China and Bulgaria have witnessed long-term traditional friendship since the two established diplomatic ties in 1949. We attach great importance to these friendly ties and hope to further enhance them," said Xu Caihou, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, in a meeting with visiting Bulgaria's Chief of General Staff General Zlatan Stoykov.

Stoykov hailed the exchange of visits by the Bulgarian and Chinese defense ministers in the past two years as an important event in the military history of both countries, saying the two sides have cooperated smoothly in establishing a dialogue mechanism, building modernized forces, and personnel exchange, among others.

"Bulgaria will make further contributions to our relations," Stoykov added.

He reiterated Bulgaria's adherence to the one-China policy.

Stoykov, heading a Bulgarian military delegation, arrived yesterday, kicking off a four-day visit. Besides Beijing, delegates will tour Shanghai and Nanjing.

China's PLA General Staff chief Chen Bingde was expected to meet with Stoykov in Nanjing, eastern Jiangsu Province, later today. The two sides would also exchange views on relations between the two militaries.