Kazan (TDI): Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged China and Laos to set a model for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation, emphasizing the importance of deepening their strategic partnership.
Xi made these remarks during a meeting with Thongloun Sisoulith, General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and President of Laos, on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit.
President Xi stressed the need to continue developing the China-Laos Railway and advancing the construction of the China-Laos Economic Corridor.
He highlighted that over the past year, both nations have made significant progress in connectivity, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges following their consensus on comprehensive cooperation.
As socialist comrades, Xi noted that the relationship between China and Laos holds special significance in China’s neighborhood diplomacy, adding that China will remain a reliable partner for Laos, regardless of changes in the international landscape.
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China, advancing modernization through high-quality development, and Laos, entering a new stage of national revitalization, should deepen strategic trust, enhance practical cooperation, and build a stronger China-Laos community with a shared future, Xi said.
He reiterated China’s willingness to import more agricultural products from Laos and promote cooperation in education, culture, and youth exchanges.
He also congratulated Laos on hosting the recent East Asian Leaders’ gathering and commended its active participation in BRICS cooperation.
Sisoulith Acknowledges China’s Valuable Support
Thongloun Sisoulith, while acknowledging China’s valuable support over the years, said that bilateral relations between the two countries are at their strongest.
He expressed his commitment to further advancing the Laos-China Railway and Economic Corridor, reiterating Laos’ unwavering support for China on key issues such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Xinjiang.
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He also thanked China for its assistance in hosting the East Asian Leaders’ meetings and pledged continued cooperation within ASEAN and other multilateral platforms.
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