Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan held talks with Douangchay Phichit, Lao deputy prime minister and defense minister, exchanging views on bilateral military ties, regional and international security situation and other issues of common concern.

Cao, who is also vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission (CMC) and state councilor, said the relationship between China and Laos has developed in an all-around way in recent years, with fruitful cooperation in various fields.

China would like to maintain and further enhance high-level exchanges between the two armed forces as well as cooperation on technical sphere, said Cao.

Douangchay said to develop the relations between China and Laos and their armed forces accords with the interests of the two peoples and the peace and security of the region and the world .

He reaffirmed Laos will adhere to the one-China policy and supports China's reunification.

(Xinhua News Agency March 21, 2007)