Li Peng Meets Lao PresidentSino-Lao ties have developed rapidly since the normalization of relations between the two countries, said Li Peng, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC).Li made the remarks here today in meeting with visiting Lao President Khamtay Siphandone. Li said Khamtay's current visit to China at the turn of a new century is of important political significance and will further deepen the bilateral ties. He noted that the two countries have maintained close coordination and cooperation in international and regional issues, adding that China is satisfied with the smooth development of relations between the two countries and between the Communist Party of China and the Lao People's Revolutionary Party. He said the Chinese side is glad to see the economic progress in Laos and the increasing participation of Laos in regional issues. Li said China hopes Laos will maintain its social stability and economic development, and play an even more active role in maintaining regional peace and stability. Li briefed the guest on China's NPC system and legal and democracy-building. He told the guest that the NPC and the Lao National Assembly have expanded their exchange and cooperation in recent years. He said the NPC and the Lao National Assembly had a deep exchange of views on consolidating the friendly contacts between the two bodies as well as democracy and legal construction during the visit to China by Saman Vinhaket, president of the Lao National Assembly in January this year. Li said the exchange and cooperation between the NPC and the Lao National Assembly is an important part of bilateral ties, adding that the NPC is willing to conduct multi-layer exchange and share experiences with its Lao counterpart, so that the two bodies can play an bigger role in their respective economic construction. Khamtay said during his short stay in China, he had important exchanges with Chinese leaders and broad consensus have been reached. Khamtay noted that he is glad to see the frequent exchanges between the two legislative bodies, saying that it will surely enhance the understanding between them. Khamtay invited Li to visit his country again and Li thanked him for the invitation. Li asked Khamtay to convey his cordial greeting to Saman and Laotian Prime Minister Sisavat Keobounphan. |
| People's Daily Online --- http://www.peopledaily.com.cn/english/ |