Chinese Defense Minister Meets Lao GuestsChinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian met Friday, December 15, with Kenekham Senglathone, deputy chief of the General Staff of the Lao People's Army, and his party.Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission, said that China and Laos are neighboring countries, and have forged a long-term friendship. He mentioned Chinese President Jiang Zemin's visit to Laos not long time ago, and said that the important visit was a milestone in the history of Sino-Lao relations. Chi said that military relations between China and Laos have developed smoothly, and the Sino-Lao friendly cooperation conforms to the fundamental interests of the two countries, and benefits regional peace, stability and development. He said that China is ready to work with Laos to promote the friendly cooperation between the two armed forces. Chi also briefed the guests on China's domestic situation and military development, and thanked Laos for adhering to the one-China stance. Kenekham expressed gratitude for China's support to Laos in the past, and hopes that China's reunification can be achieved at an early date. |
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