KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 16 (Xinhuanet) -- Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Tuesday China is an important force for promoting regional peace and development.

　　Malaysia wishes to develop further friendly relations with China including enhancement of bilateral cooperation in political,economic and trade as well as military fields, Mahathir said when meeting visiting Chinese military delegation led by General Liang Guanglie, Chief of Staff of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in Putrajaya near here.

　　The enhanced cooperation between the two countries will contribute to the peace and stability of the region, he added.

　　In reply, Liang said the deepening of mutual-beneficial cooperation between the two countries and two armies is not only in conformation with basic interest of China and Malaysia, but also benefits the regional peace, stability and development.

　　Meanwhile, Liang also had talks with Malaysian Defence MinisterNajib Tun Razak and Chief of Defence Forces Mohamed Zahid Hamidi on stepping up visits, exchange of information and defence cooperation.

　　The 12-member PLA delegation arrived here last Friday for a weeklong visit to Malaysia. Enditem