Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu (R) meets with Lao Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad in Beijing, capital of China, May 6, 2009. (Xinhua/Li Tao) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu called Wednesday for expanded cooperation with Laos.

    Hui made the remarks in his meeting with visiting Lao Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad. He highlighted the rapid growth of bilateral relations and said China was willing to expand its ties with Laos.

    He also suggested the two countries should work closely to formulate guidelines on economic and trade cooperation, according to a press release from the Ministry of Commerce after the meeting.

    Somsavat also expressed his country's commitment to greater bilateral cooperation.

    The two sides exchanged views on issues of common concern such as the global downturns, the press release added.

Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu (R) meets with Lao Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad (L) in Beijing, capital of China, May 6, 2009. (Xinhua/Li Tao) Photo Gallery>>>