Beijing, Jan 31, SPA -- U.S. and Chinese officials meeting Mondaysaid they hoped for better military relations and a peaceful settlement to disputes over the future of Taiwan. Washington hopes for "real progress" on a wide range ofmilitary issues, Richard P. Lawless, a U.S. deputyundersecretary of defense, told his Chinese counterpartMaj. Gen. Zhang Bangdong before they began two days ofclosed door talks. "This meeting represents the importance both sides haveattached to their military relations," said Tu Qiming, aDefense Ministry spokesman. "Both sides feel that therelationship is developing in a frank and constructivemanner." During talks Monday, the two sides expressed "hope thatthe Taiwan issue can be peacefully resolved," said Tu.--SPA1427 Local Time 1127 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/235802