Kathmandu, January 8: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Nepali Army (NA), General Rookmangud Katawal met with the Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan, today, in which both vowed to deepen ties between the two countries and the two armed forces. Speaking to media persons, Cao said that China and Nepal have enjoyed a long tradition of friendship. He further stressed on the need to continue the bilateral friendly relationship to move forward healthily and smoothly guided by the five principles of peaceful coexistence – the panchasheel. He said that China respects Nepal's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, supports Nepal's self-determined choice for development in accordance with its own national conditions, and supports Nepal's friendly policy towards its neighbours. 

Source: The Kathmandu Post, January 8, 2008