国内英语新闻:China, Laos vows to further enhance military relations

VIENTIANE, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Laos and China pledged on Monday to deepen military exchanges and cooperation, strengthen unity and friendship between the two countries'militaries and work together to maintain regional peace and stability.

The vows came out of the meeting between the Lao Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of National Defense Douangchay Phichith, Lao Deputy Minister of National Defense Sanyahak Phomvihane and the visiting Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Cai Yingting.

Douangchay said the Lao side appreciates the Chinese side's long-term support and help which have contributed to the Lao social economic development and national defense building. The Lao Party, government and military attach great importance to developing relations with China, and are willing to make joint efforts with the Chinese side to further promote the two states and militaries' ties to a new level.

Sanyahak said that no matter how changes in the international and regional situation, the solid traditional friendship between the two countries' people and militaries won't change. Laos is willing to cooperate with China closely, deepen communication and cooperation between the two militaries, and constantly strengthen unity and friendship of the two sides.

Cai said that China and Laos are friendly neighbors, the peoples of the two countries have forged a profound friendship since ancient times. In recent years, the bilateral ties continue to see a healthier and stabler development, especially after the two countries have established a comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership.

The Chinese side will continue to maintain close high-level contacts with Laos, enhance substantial cooperation, and strengthen friendly coordination, in order to contribute to the bilateral ties, and regional peace, stability and prosperity, Cai added.

The Cai-led Chinese PLA delegation arrived in Lao's capital of Vientiane on Monday at the invitation of the Lao Ministry of National Defense, kicking off their friendly visit to Laos.