BEIJING, Dec. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan said Tuesday China is willing to work with Iran to maintain friendly military exchanges and strengthen cooperation.

Chang made the remarks while meeting visiting Ghadir Nezamipour, deputy chief of staff of the Iranian armed forces.

Chang said the two countries have developed sound bilateral relations, deepened political mutual trust and made achievements in trade and energy cooperation.

"Under the new circumstances, China-Iran cooperation faces an important opportunity, and China is willing to cooperate with Iran to make new contribution to bilateral ties," Chang said.

Nezamipour said he hoped for increasing communication, more pragmatic cooperation and a higher level of military relations between the two countries.