MOSCOW 

Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov met with China's vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, Zhang Youxia, in Moscow on Thursday to discuss strengthening military ties.

According to a statement from the Russian Defense Ministry, Belousov said the ministries are implementing agreements reached at the leaders' summits, including significantly increasing joint military exercises.

“I emphasize that they are not directed against third parties,” he said, adding that the cooperation aims to ensure mutual security.

Both officials highlighted the role of their leaders' "strategic guidance."

Belousov noted their visits gave a "strong impetus" to relations, while Zhang Youxia said China-Russia relations "set an example of a new type of international relations."

Zhang Youxia pledged that his visit would "implement important agreements reached by the leaders of our states" and enhance the relationship.

An official welcoming ceremony at the Russian defense headquarters preceded the talks.