BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- China and Malawi agreed to strengthen military cooperation in various fields during the talks between the defense ministers of the two countries here on Wednesday.

"The Chinese armed forces attach great importance to establishing and developing relations with the Malawian armed forces," said Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie.

Liang, who is also state councilor, told his Malawian counterpart Aaron Sangala that the Chinese side is ready to develop exchanges and cooperation with the Malawian side in various fields.

Sangala said the cooperation between Malawi and China is based on south-south cooperation, and Malawi hopes to strengthen military and defense cooperation with China.

Sangala is accompanying Malawian President Bingu wa Mutharika who is here for a weeklong state visit to China as guest of Chinese President Hu Jintao.