VIENTIANE -- Lao President Bounnhang Vorachit said on Thursday he hoped military cooperation between Laos and China would be enhanced to promote bilateral ties.

The remarks were made during his meeting with visiting Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan in Lao capital Vientiane.

Bounnhang, who is also general secretary of the Central Committee of Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), said that cooperations between the two parties, two countries and two armies are comprehensive, long-term, stable and with strategic significance.

The close cooperation between Lao and Chinese armies has pushed forward the development of the Lao army, said the president, who also expressed the hope that the two armies would continue to strengthen their cooperation in various fields in the future.

Chang, for his part, said that China-Lao ties have been reinforced since the establishment of their diplomatic relations 55 years ago.

The Chinese army is willing to join hands with the Lao army to deepen communication and cooperation in areas such as high-level exchanges, capability building, personnel training and multilateral security so as to add new connotation to the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, Chang added.

Chang also stated China's stance on the South China Sea issue.

The dispute should be resolved through peaceful negotiation, which will be conducive to regional peace and stability, said Bounnhang, adding that Laos will support China in protecting its core interests.