BEIJING -- Top legislator Zhang Dejiang on Monday met with his Laotian counterpart Pany Yathotou and pledged to boost legislation-related cooperation between the two countries.

Zhang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), thanked Yathotou for Laos's firm support on issues concerning China's major interest, adding that China's leaders attach importance to developing relations with neighboring countries and are committed to advancing China-Laos relations.

China is ready to work with Laos and other neighboring countries to safeguard stability and promote prosperity in Asia, Zhang said.

Zhang said the NPC has set up a body to strengthen relations between the Chinese and Laotian legislatures.

Both sides should increase exchanges, particularly between younger legislators, in order to play a bigger role in advancing bilateral relations, he said.

Yathotou, president of the Laotian National Assembly, said Laos cherishes its friendship with China and regards the country as a faithful friend and reliable partner.

Laos has paid great attention to bilateral relations, she said, adding that she is visiting China to boost relations between the Laotian National Assembly and the NPC, as well as make more contributions to the development of bilateral ties.