Defense minister promotes DPRK ties

Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie arrived in Pyongyang, capital of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on Sunday to promote military ties between the two countries. This is the first stop of his three nation Asian tour.

It's the first visit a Chinese defense minister to the DPRK since 2006.

Upon his arrival at Pyongyang's Airport, Liang said in a written statement that his visit is to promote military exchanges between the two countries, and to work with the DPRK for regional peace and stability.

Liang was welcomed by his DPRK counterpart, Kim Yong-Chun at a sculpture park which commemorates the Korean War. China's top defense official fought in that conflict a volunteer soldier 50 years ago.

Both military leaders inspected a military honor guard.

Liang Guanglie's visit comes two weeks before the US envoy Stephen Bosworth's visit to the DPRK. The topic of Pyongyang's nuclear program is expected on the agenda of Liang's meeting with DPRK officials.

Liang will also travel to Japan and Thailand to boost military exchanges.