China, Laos to strengthen security co-op on Mekong River

Chinese and Lao security officials on Wednesday agreed to strengthen security cooperation on the Mekong River to combat transnational crime, according to China's Ministry of Public Security.

Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Meng Jianzhu held talks with visiting Lao Minister of Public Security Thongbanh Sengaphone on promoting bilateral security cooperation.

Meng thanked Laos for assisting China in recent cases, saying the two sides have established a comprehensive and cooperative security relationship.

The two countries should continue to enhance law enforcement and security cooperation on the Mekong, promote exchanges between law enforcement personnel and deepen pragmatic cooperation in various areas in order to create a stable and peaceful environment for the region's economic development and people's livelihood, Meng said.

Bilateral cooperation can be implemented in conducting border management, curbing illegal immigration, combating drug trafficking, fighting human trafficking, investigating cases and repatriating criminal suspects, among others, according to Meng.

Thongbanh Sengaphone said Laos is willing to continue to provide firm support for China in security cooperation and combating transnational crime.

The two sides signed relevant cooperation documents after their talks, according to China's Ministry of Public Security.