Beijing, July 31 (IANS): China will firmly pursue a path of peaceful development and enhance military cooperation with foreign countries, Minister of Defence Chang Wanquan said Wednesday.

China will unremittingly follow the national defense policy that is defensive in nature, strengthen military cooperation and mutual trust with other countries, Xinhua quoted him as saying.

The minister also said that China would take part in regional and international security affairs and play a positive role in international politics and security, Chang said.

The minister's remarks came at a reception held at the Great Hall of the People in downtown Beijing to celebrate the 86th anniversary of the establishment of the People's Liberation Army.

Chang is also a member of the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the Communist Party of China and a state councilor.

The principal body of China's armed forces, the PLA encompasses the army, the navy, the air force and the Second Artillery Corps.