HANOI, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Lao Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh and his Myanmar counterpart Thein Sein touched upon measures to enhance their bilateral ties, especially cooperative ones in such fields as politics, security and technical expertise, Lao newspaper Vientiane Times reported Friday.

    During their talks on Thursday, the two prime ministers also informed each other of the socioeconomic development situations of their countries, and discussed regional and international issues of common concern.

    Also on Thursday, General Thein Sein called on Lao President Choummaly Sayasone who said he highly valued the Myanmar prime minister's visit which would significantly contribute to strengthening relations, friendship and cooperation of the two countries.

    Laos and Myanmar, whose diplomatic relations were established in 1955, are friendly neighbors and always enjoy good relations, the newspaper said.

    Earlier this year, the two countries upgraded their shared border checkpoints to meet international standards to attract foreign tourists.

    Thein Sein arrived in Laos' capital Vientiane on Thursday, his first visit abroad since being appointed prime minister on Oct. 24. He left Laos for Vietnam on Friday.

    The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam are members, has a tradition of conducting introductory tours to member countries when heads of state and government take office.