China's top diplomat Wang Yi paid respects to Laos' former president Khamtay Siphandone at the Lao Embassy in Beijing this week, underscoring enduring bilateral relations. Wang, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, signed the condolence book and praised Khamtay as "an outstanding leader" who contributed significantly to cross-border cooperation.
During Thursday's solemn visit, Wang emphasized Beijing's commitment to advancing a China-Laos community with a shared future, aligning with agreements by both nations' leaders. Khamtay, who served as Laos' president from 1998 to 2006 and chaired the ruling Lao People's Revolutionary Party until 2006, passed away recently at age 96.
The tribute reflects six decades of diplomatic cooperation since China and Laos established ties in 1961. Analysts view this gesture as reinforcing regional stability ahead of upcoming ASEAN meetings, where both countries coordinate on trade and infrastructure initiatives under China's Belt and Road framework.
