China, Australia hold defense talks in Beijing

The militaries of China and Australia held the 23rd Defense Strategic Dialogue in Beijing on Monday, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense said.

The talks were co-chaired by Xu Qiling, deputy chief of staff of the Central Military Commission's Joint Staff Department, and Robert Chipman, vice chief of the Australian Defense Force. Hugh Jeffrey, deputy secretary of the Australian Department of Defense, also took part, the ministry said in a statement.

The two sides discussed bilateral military relations, regional security, and other issues of mutual concern, the statement said. They agreed to strengthen strategic communication in the defense field, manage conflicts and differences, and continue exchanges and cooperation.