Zhang Youxia, vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission, held talks with Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov during his visit to Russia on Thursday, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense said.

The senior military official was invited by the Russian side, according to a ministry news release.

The two sides had in-depth exchanges on ties between the two countries and their militaries, the international and regional situation, and issues of common concern, it said.

They reached consensus on strengthening high-level exchanges and deepening practical cooperation, the release said.

Prior to the talks, Belousov hosted a welcome ceremony for Zhang, it added.