Chinese defense minister holds talks with Lao deputy prime minister and defense minister

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun held talks with visiting Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Khamlieng Outhakaysone in Beijing on Monday.

Dong said the Chinese military is ready to work with the Lao military to further strengthen high-level exchanges, enhance the quality and efficiency of practical cooperation in various fields, provide strong support for building an all-weather China-Laos community with a shared future in the new era, and safeguard regional stability.

Khamlieng Outhakaysone said the Lao side is willing to strengthen high-level communication and exchanges at various levels between the two militaries and promote practical cooperation across various fields to achieve more outcomes.

This year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Laos.

Since September 7, the Chinese and Lao militaries have been conducting a joint military exercise in Vientiane, Laos, codenamed "Peace Train-2026," focusing on humanitarian assistance and medical services. The exercise is scheduled to run through late September, making it the sixth joint exercise of its kind between the two militaries since 2017.