BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) -- China and Pakistan pledged to strengthen defense ties Thursday at a meeting between Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie and visiting Pakistani Chief of Army Staff Ashfaq Parvez Kayani.

"Cooperation between the Chinese and Pakistani armed forces is exemplary and has been fruitful," Liang, also a state councilor, said during the meeting at Diaoyutai Guest House Thursday morning.

Liang said the two sides should make continuous efforts to conduct their cooperation programs well.

He said China would join hands with Pakistan to bring military relations to a new high.

Kayani said Pakistan values its defense and security cooperation with China, noting that the two countries have cooperated fruitfully in national defense industries in recent years.

He added Pakistan would further strengthen exchange and cooperation with China.

Kayani also met with Chinese State Councilor and Minister for Public Security Meng Jianzhu, top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo, and Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission Guo Boxiong later Thursday.

During the meeting with Meng Jianzhu, the two sides discussed bilateral cooperation in law enforcement and security.

Hailing results achieved in the two fields, Meng pointed out Pakistan's active efforts in cooperating with China, including in anti-terrorism. He said he believed that the China-Pakistan cooperation in law enforcement and security would continue to develop with the joint efforts from both sides.

Kayani echoed Meng saying the Pakistani government and its armed forces attached much importance to the strategic cooperation with China, and the government would further enhance it.

During a meeting with Guo Boxiong, the senior officer of the People's Liberation Army of China stressed the importance of strategic communication between China and Pakistan.

Guo said the all-weather friendship between the two countries has endured major international challenges. Facing the changing international and regional security situation, the two sides should strengthen strategic communication, deepen substantial cooperation and make positive contributions to regional peace and prosperity.

Kayani said Pakistan valued and was proud of its traditional friendship with China.