ANKARA [MENL] -- China and Turkey have launched fresh talks on military cooperation.

Officials said the two countries have resumed talks regarding military cooperation. They said the cooperation could include training and joint exercises.

Turkish Air Force commander Gen. Ibrahim Firtina, accompanied by a delegation, has been discussing military cooperation in China. Firtina, who last held talks in Beijing in 2003, said his visit to Beijing was meant to develop military ties between the two countries.

Firtina has met the Chinese Chief of Staff Gen. Liang Guanglie as well as other military commanders. Firtina and his delegation plan to remain in China until April 7.

The military cooperation talks come as Turkey seeks to increase trade with and investment in China. In the first stage, Turkey plans to increase exports of chemicals and steel as well as transfer production of these products to China.