In a significant move towards strengthening regional cooperation, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Wang highlighted the enduring friendship and mutual support between China and Laos, noting the rise in bilateral trade and the enhanced transportation capacity of the China-Laos railway. He emphasized the increase in people-to-people exchanges and closer collaboration in international and regional affairs.
China is committed to supporting Laos in exploring development paths tailored to its national conditions and backing Laos in its role as the rotating chair of ASEAN, thereby boosting its international and regional influence. Wang reiterated China's willingness to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation across various fields, maximize the benefits of the China-Laos Railway, and accelerate comprehensive development to serve both nations' revitalization.
Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay acknowledged the pivotal role of Lao-Chinese cooperation in Laos's socioeconomic development. He expressed Laos's readiness to implement the consensus reached by both leaders, enhance high-level exchanges, and deepen cooperation in connectivity and mineral resources. Saleumxay also emphasized the joint efforts to combat transnational crime and promote the construction of a Laos-China community with a shared future.
The discussions also touched on the Myanmar issue, with Wang supporting ASEAN's efforts to engage with Myanmar and promote stability and democratic transition. Saleumxay praised China's role in peace talks and political reconciliation in Myanmar and expressed Laos's willingness to collaborate with China to support Myanmar's stability and development.
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Wang Yi meets Lao Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith in Chiang Mai
cgtn.com
