Laos expects to strengthen news, media co-op with China

VIENTIANE, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- Laos expects to enhance exchanges and cooperation with China in news and media areas, said Lao Standing Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad here on Saturday.

Somsavat made the remarks when meeting with Wang Chen, Minister of the State Council Information Office of China, who is in Laos for the First Conference of the ASEAN+3 Ministers Responsible for Information.

Ministers in charge of news and information from Association of Southeast Asian Nations countries, China, Japan and Republic of Korea (ASEAN+3) met here on Friday to discuss cooperation and exchanges.

Somsavat said the participation of Chinese delegation to the meeting contribute to its success and the development of Laos-China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

Somsavat expected Laos and China could strengthen cooperation in news, publishing, media exchanges and personnel training.

Wang said the meeting marks a good beginning for news cooperation among ASEAN and the three dialogue partners.

Wang said China and Laos are witnessing closer cooperation in all areas and China would like to push the cooperation to a new high.

Wang also met with Lao Information and Culture Minister Mounkeo Oraboun on Saturday. The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation between news and culture departments and agencies of the two countries.