Liang met Uzbek Defense Minister Kabul Berdiev on bilateral relations and matters of mutual concern in the capital after attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization defense ministers' meeting in neighbouring Kazakhstan.

Liang, also a state councilor, said the relationship between China and Uzbekistan had been developing smoothly, featuring closer high-level exchanges, deepener political trust and substantive cooperation in various fields.

Military cooperation, in particular, had seen sound and stable development, Liang said, adding that China would continue to promote cooperation with Uzbekistan in the defense sector, while upholding principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.

Liang said he hoped his visit would bring about more understanding, consensus and friendship between the two countries.

Berdiev said Uzbekistan saw China as a trusted friend and partner. The military exchanges between the two countries were very important for boosting mutual understanding and trust and Uzbekistan was willing to advance the military relations to a new level.