VIENTIANE — China and Laos have pledged to boost cooperation on law enforcement and security and maintain regional stability.

The pledge came as visiting State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi held talks separately with Chansamone Chanyalath, Lao minister of national defense and Somkeo Silavong, Lao minister of public security in Vientiane on May 14.

At the meetings, Zhao said China is willing to work with Laos to boost cooperation in safeguarding national security, anti-terrorism, fighting drug-related crimes, hunt for fled suspects and recovering ill-gotten gains, and fighting against internet gambling, telecom fraud and illegal immigration, among others.

China is ready to join hands with Laos to deepen law enforcement and security cooperation along the Mekong River, and strengthen security cooperation in major projects of the Belt and Road Initiative, such as the China-Laos railway, said Zhao.

Both sides should cooperate to solidly safeguard the Belt and Road Initiative projects, to ensure the safety of institutions and personnel in each other’s countries, and to maintain the security and stability of the two countries and the region.

The Lao ministers said the Lao side treasures the traditional friendship with China and thanked China for its longtime support and help.

The Lao side is willing to implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two parties and states, further strengthen practical cooperation in various areas of law enforcement and security, so as to effectively safeguard the security and stability of the two countries.