Chinese President Xi Jinping and Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith reaffirmed their nations' strategic partnership during high-level talks in Beijing on Thursday, signaling deeper collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and regional security. The meeting marked a milestone in cross-border cooperation under China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with both leaders emphasizing shared development goals.
Xi, also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the 'unbreakable fraternal bond' between the two socialist nations. Thongloun, General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, praised China's role in supporting Laos' economic modernization through rail connectivity and energy projects.
Key discussion points included:
Accelerating the China-Laos-Thailand Railway Corridor
Expanding agricultural trade and digital economy partnerships
Enhancing coordination on ASEAN affairs and Mekong River sustainability
The talks concluded with agreements to boost cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties, particularly in education and tourism sectors. Analysts note the meeting underscores China's growing influence in Southeast Asia through infrastructure-driven diplomacy.
