Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived in Vientiane on Sunday night to attend the ninth annual Asia-Europe Meeting and pay an official visit to Laos.

In a written statement released upon his arrival, Wen conveyed the greetings and good wishes of the Chinese people to the people of Laos.

Wen said Laos has achieved political stability and economic development in recent years and a good beginning to its seventh Five-Year Plan. China congratulates Laos on its remarkable results of reform and opening up, he said.

The premier noted that China and Laos are good neighbors, friends, and partners that trust each other and share a long-standing traditional friendship.

Wen said bilateral relations have developed smoothly, enjoying mutual political trust, sound economic cooperation and close coordination on multilateral occasions.

"I expect to thoroughly exchange views with Laos' leaders on comprehensively promote the two countries' cooperation in all fields so as to make continuous progress of China-Laos comprehensive relations of strategic cooperation and partnership," Wen said.

Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong held a welcoming ceremony for Wen at the airport.

(Xinhua News Agency November 4, 2012)