Quito, September 24 (Xinhua-RHC) -- Defense Minister of Ecuador Maria Fernanda Espinosa on Tuesday announced that she had submitted her resignation to President Rafael Correa.

Espinosa made the announcement at a press conference held in Quito. She didn't specify the reason for the resignation.

"I leave with the satisfaction of accomplishment and I wish the best to my successor," Espinosa said. At the conference, she also reported the results of her recent official visit to China.

Espinosa hailed her visit to China as a success, saying it helped her country "strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation with China in the field of military."

According to the official, there are now four Ecuadorian officers studying in China, and the number is expected to go up 10.