China-Laos Ties at Historical High: Xi

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Lao President Choummaly Sayasone in Beijing on Aug. 31, 2015. [Photo: Xinhua] 

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Lao President Choummaly Sayasone on Monday, saying China"s relations with the Southeast Asian country are at an all-time high.

Choummaly is in Beijing to attend activities to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People"s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and World War II.

Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, expressed appreciation to the Lao People"s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and the Lao government for their support of the V-day celebrations.

China and Laos were both victims in World War II, said Xi, adding that both peoples joined hands to fight aggression and work for national independence.

China hopes to contribute even more to world peace and development together with Laos and other countries, Xi said.

Choummaly, who is also the general secretary of the LPRP Central Committee, lauded China"s great contribution during World War II and the deep friendship forged between the Chinese and Lao people as they fought side by side.

China has a series of events planned in the run-up to the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII, culminating in a military parade on Sept. 3 in Beijing.

Speaking highly of current bilateral ties and Choummaly"s efforts in mutual trust and cooperation since he took office in 2006, Xi said the relationship between the two countries and the two political parties "has entered its best period in history."

Recent years have witnessed tremendous growth in bilateral cooperation, with enhanced connections between the two countries, Xi added.

He said China is willing to work with Laos to further push forward the all-round strategic partnership of cooperation, adding that the partnership features a high degree of mutual trust, mutual assistance and reciprocity.

He called on both sides to maintain high-level exchanges between the two political parties and countries and the annual meeting between the two presidents.

China is ready to advance cooperation with Laos under the "Belt and Road" Initiatives and cooperate in production, said the Chinese president.

He also called on both sides to boost cooperation in security, culture, tourism, education and youth exchanges.

Hailing Laos"s long-term support for China in international and regional affairs, Xi said China hopes both sides can continue cooperating through the United Nations, ASEAN and the Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation.

Briefing Xgi on Laos"s international situation, Choummaly expressed his appreciation for China"s support and assistance, saying that Laos would like to maintain close high-level contacts with China and strengthen cooperation in international and regional affairs.

After the talks, the two presidents witnessed the signing of a series of deals between the two governments.