Chinese vice premier meets leaders of South Asian countries

KUNMING - Vice Premier Ma Kai on Thursday met with foreign leaders who are attending the first China-South Asia Expo held in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan province.

While meeting with Prime Minister of Sri Lanka D. M. Jayaratne, Ma said China and Sri Lanka have been good neighbors for years.

Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who recently wrapped up a visit to China, reached an important consensus with President Xi Jinping on deepening bilateral relations, according to Ma.

China is willing to make joint efforts with Sri Lanka to aid in implementing the consensus, Ma said.

Jayaratne thanked China for supporting Sri Lanka's development and voiced willingness to strengthen bilateral trade and cooperation.

While meeting with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Vu Van Ninh, Ma said China and Vietnam are both in key stages of development.

Ma said it is in the fundamental interests of both countries to increase pragmatic cooperation and seek common prosperity.

Ma said China will adhere to a principle of friendship in its relations with Vietnam and build a stronger all-around strategic partnership of cooperation.

Vu expressed admiration for China's accomplishments and stressed the great importance his country has placed on bilateral relations.

Vu pledged to make efforts to seek more practical achievements in bilateral cooperation.

While meeting with Laotian Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad, Ma said China's leaders have attached great importance to developing ties with Laos.

Ma said China will join hands with Laos to strengthen strategic communication, deepen cooperation and boost the development of bilateral relations.

Somsavat said Laos cannot develop without China's support. He called for a stronger bilateral strategic partnership and more pragmatic  cooperation between the two countries.