NANNING, Oct. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang and Lao Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh pledged Monday to strengthen economic exchanges and deepen the strategic relationship between the two nations.

    They made the remarks during their meeting in Nanning, capital of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, ahead of the 6th China-ASEAN Expo to be held from Oct. 20 to 24.

    Li Keqiang said China and Laos enjoyed good-neighborliness with mutual political trust, deep economic cooperation and mutual support in terms of international and regional affairs.

    China is willing to consolidate friendship with Laos and expand cooperation on such areas as agriculture, mining and infrastructure, Li said, adding China will seek new channels of cooperation for mutual benefits.

    Bouasone hailed the achievements China has made in the process of modernization, noting the comprehensive strategic partnership between Laos and China is conducive to the reform and opening up of both sides.

    Laos is willing to continue high-level visits, step up economic ties with China, and lift the relationship to a higher level, Bouasone said.