VIENTIANE — Premier Li Keqiang said in Vientiane on Sept 7 that China would like to deepen all-round cooperation and exchanges with Cambodia for stronger bilateral ties.

Premier Li made the remarks while meeting with his Cambodian counterpart Samdech Techo Hun Sen on the sidelines of the East Asia leaders’ meetings in the Laotian capital of Vientiane.

“China and Cambodia are good neighbors, good friends and good partners,” said Premier Li, adding that China backs Cambodia’s efforts to preserve sovereignty and independence, maintain domestic stability, and promote economic development.

Premier Li Keqiang meets with Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen in Vientiane, Laos, Sept 7, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

The Chinese leader also hoped that the two countries can make real progress in boosting their cooperation in industrial capacity, trade, agriculture, water conservancy, infrastructure, education as well as tourism.

He also wants the two countries to strengthen their coordination within the framework of Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Mechanism in a bid to promote regional cooperation, stability and prosperity.

For his part, Hun Sen said his country appreciates China’s assistance in helping improve the livelihood of the Cambodians.

He added that Cambodia is willing to join China in enhancing their high-level exchanges, expand practical cooperation, and help boost China’s relations with ASEAN.

The Premier arrived in Vientiane late Sept 6 to attend the 19th China-ASEAN (10+1) leaders’ meeting, the 19th meeting of the leaders of ASEAN-China, Japan and the Republic of Korea(10+3), and the 11th East Asia Summit. During his stay, Premier Li will also pay an official visit to Laos.