Khalil Hraoui became the first Lebanese Minister of Defense to visit the Republic of China Monday since Beirut and Beijing established diplomatic relations back in 1971, according to state media.
Hraoui held talks with Chinese counterpart Chi Haotian who told him that "the Chinese armed forces are ready to step up exchanges and cooperation with the Lebanese army in the new century," Xinhua news agency reported.
In addition, Chi briefed Hraoui on Beijing’s efforts to help bring an end to violence in the Middle East, following the visit earlier this month by China’s special envoy to the region. (Albawaba.com)
