Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said friendly bilateral ties have been enhanced in recent years.

During his visit to Laos in November 2000, Chinese President Jiang Zemin and his counterpart Khamtay Siphandone reached a consensus on strengthening the traditional good-neighborly friendship and thus promoted bilateral ties, Chi said.

Exchanges and cooperation between the two armed forces have also been enriched, Chi said.

He said the Chinese side is willing to carry out communication and cooperation with Laos in more fields and make efforts for an all-round, long-term and good-neighborly cooperation with mutual trust.

Duoangchay Pichit offered his congratulations on the successful 16th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

He said the Chinese people, led by the CPC, have made remarkable achievements in their modernization drive, which is a great encouragement to Laos and he is satisfied with the relations between Laos and China and between their militaries.

Duoangchay thanked China for its long-term support and said Laos will adhere to the "one-China" policy as before.

Duoangchay arrived in Beijing Monday for an official and good-will visit to China at the invitation of Chi.

(Xinhua News Agency December 18, 2002)