Xi Jinping Meets Lao President to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

BEIJING, Sept 4: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday met with Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith in Beijing, reaffirming the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation amid shifting regional and global dynamics.

Thongloun, who is also secretary general of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee, is in China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 and the 80th anniversary commemorations of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as for an official working visit.

During their meeting, Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the importance of viewing China-Laos relations from a long-term, strategic perspective. He called on both sides to firmly support each other on core interests and major concerns.

Xi also highlighted cooperation on the China-Laos Railway, urging both countries to improve operations and boost development along the railway corridor. He further called for stronger collaboration in defense, law enforcement, and security.

For his part, Thongloun described current bilateral relations as “the best in history” and pledged to work closely with Beijing to implement the new five-year action plan aimed at building a Laos-China community with a shared future.

He also reiterated Laos’ support for Xi’s Global Governance Initiative, saying his country is ready to enhance coordination with China on international and regional platforms.