A defense strategic consultation delegation of the People's Liberation Army paid a weeklong visit to the United Kingdom and France, China's Defense Ministry announced on Saturday.

"From June 24 to July 1, the PLA defense strategic consultation delegation visited the UK and France," the ministry said in a brief news release.

The delegation held discussions with foreign parties on developing bilateral defense relations, exchanged in-depth views on international and regional security issues of common interest, said the ministry.

It added that the discussions enhanced bilateral mutual understanding and trust.