Chinese Minister of Public Security Meng Jianzhu paid a courtesy visit to Lao President Choummaly Saysasone in Vientiane on Wednesday and the two sides pledged to continue efforts to promote bilateral cooperation, with an emphasis on security.

Choummaly said Laos and China had strengthened understanding and trust and consolidated their traditional friendship into a new era of mutually beneficial cooperation in all fields.

He expressed that Laos is willing to strengthen communication and cooperation with China, helping each other to jointly boost development in both countries.

Meng, also a State Councilor, said the traditional friendship between the two neighboring countries has strengthened through the ages. He expressed his expectations of continuing friendship, deepening communications and cooperation in various areas, further promoting Laos-China relations.

Meng said the two nations have coordinated will in regional affairs, noting China would like to work with Laos to further develop their comprehensive, strategic and cooperative partnership.

The friendship and cooperation between the two countries has grown continuously, and has not only promoted their respective development and safeguarded their common interests, but also contributed to enhancing mutual political trust, cultural exchanges, and cooperation in various fields, Meng said.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Lao-Chinese diplomatic ties and a friendly year for China and Laos as the two countries will jointly organize a series of events and activities to mark the anniversary, which expected the two countries to carry on the good neighbors, friends, comrades and partners forever.

Soubanh Sarithirath, Minister to the Lao Prime Minister's Office and Chairman of the National Commission for Drug Control and Supervision, and Thongban Seng Aphone, Lao Minister of Public Security, also met Meng on the same day.

Meng arrived in the Lao capital of Vientiane on a working visit on Tuesday at the invitation of Thongban.