Tokyo (VNA) - Japanese PrimeMinister Shinzo Abe and his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisolith held talks inTokyo on June 7 to discuss implementation of a plan to spur development in Laosand other issues.

During a previous meeting inVientiane last September, the two PMs agreed on the plan, which involves investmentin transport, power generation and distribution, human resources, agricultureand public works.

Abe said that Lao is a targetdestination for his administration's push for "high-quality"infrastructure investment in the Asia-Pacific region, aimed at reaping botheconomic and strategic benefits.

"We will work together to maintain and strengthen a free and openinternational order based on the rule of law, including by fortifying regionalcoordination," Abe said.

Thongloun appreciated Japan'scontributions, adding that his government "wants to strengthen theenvironment for Japanese companies to invest in Laos."

He said he and Abe affirmed theirongoing cooperation in realising direct flights between Vientiane and Tokyo.

He also hailed Japan's commitment toworking on roads and other infrastructure investment in the East-West EconomicCorridor through the Mekong region to improve connectivity.
 
The two leaders frankly exchanged view on urgent regional and global issues,including those in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the East Sea.

Earlier in the day, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and his Laocounterpart Saleumxay Kommasith discussed ongoing initiatives between the twocountries.

The Lao PM attended a conference onthe future of Asia in Tokyo earlier this week.-VNA