US Defence Secretary Robert Gates is in China to try to improve bilateral military ties and discuss ways to ease US concerns about China's military modernisation, which he says, is more advanced than first thought. He arrived in Beijing on Sunday for a three day visit during which he is expected to meet with Chinese President and Defence Minister. Prior to arrival, Gates told reports on his plane that he wants to persuade China to engage in regular military talks with the United States to prevent misunderstanding that could lead to conflict. Secretary Gates expressed concern about China's latest advances in high-tech weaponry.