Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a congratulatory message to Thongloun Sisoulith, general secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and president of Laos, marking the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, praised the LPRP for uniting the Lao people through challenges and driving forward reform and opening-up.
He noted that Laos has made impressive progress in improving livelihoods and strengthening its regional and international standing — achievements China views with genuine satisfaction.
Expressing confidence in Laos’ future, Xi said he believed the country would continue pursuing a socialist development path suited to its national conditions, ensure the successful convening of the upcoming 12th LPRP National Congress, and keep advancing its national development goals.
Xi recalled Thongloun’s successful visit to China in September, during which both sides reached new strategic understandings to further develop the China-Laos community with a shared future.
He added that China has always treated Laos as a diplomatic priority and is ready to use next year’s 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to deepen traditional friendship, enhance solidarity and cooperation, and strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership.
This, Xi said, will bring greater benefits to the peoples of both countries and contribute to regional and global peace and development.
