CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- Chongqing and Lao’s Champasak Province entered into an agreement on the establishment of a sister-city relationship on November 22.

Based on the principle of equality and mutual benefit, Chongqing and Lao’s Champasak Province will carry out various forms of exchanges and cooperation in trade and investment, logistics and transportation, culture and tourism, agriculture, education, and healthcare, with a view to deepening mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Laos, strengthening bilateral cooperation, and promoting shared prosperity and development.

The agreement specifies that leaders and relevant departments of both sides will maintain regular contact. The Foreign Affairs Office of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government and the Foreign Affairs Department of Champasak Province are designated liaison organizations to routinely discuss matters of exchanges and cooperation between the two sides as well as issues of common concern.

Located in southwestern Laos and bordering Thailand and Cambodia, Champasak Province covers an area of 15,400 square kilometers and is home to 694,000 residents. Its provincial capital is Pakse, and the Mekong River flows through the province from north to south. Known for its abundant agricultural resources, Champasak is a land of plenty in southern Laos, serving as a key development area for tropical cash crops and a base for the livestock breeding industry.

Prior to the conclusion of the relationship agreement, the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chongqing Municipal People’s Government, together with the Chongqing Development and Reform Commission, the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce, and Southwest University has been engaged in multiple rounds of talks with Champasak Province. These discussions focus on cooperation in silkworm breeding, konjac research, and rural revitalization, laying a foundation for expanding and deepening cooperation between the two sides. (Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)