Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un held talks with Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, agreeing to bolster bilateral cooperation, as reported by North Korea's state media on Wednesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the meeting occurred on Tuesday in Pyongyang during the Lao president's visit, which coincided with celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party of Korea. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) highlighted discussions on enhancing mutual cooperation, with both leaders expressing optimism for strengthening traditional relations of friendship and cooperation.

Kim Jong-un emphasized that Thongloun's visit symbolized his government's support and encouragement for North Korea. In response, the Lao leader committed to ongoing efforts to further the friendship and cooperation between the two nations, as per the KCNA report. Following the talks, Kim hosted a reception in honor of Thongloun's visit, where both leaders delivered speeches, though further details were not disclosed by the KCNA.

Thongloun's previous visit to Pyongyang was in September 2011, when he was the deputy prime minister and foreign minister, accompanying then President Choummaly Sayasone for discussions with the late North Korean leader Kim Jong-il. The anniversary event is expected to attract several other foreign dignitaries, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev. North Korea annually celebrates its ruling party's foundation anniversary on October 10.

Reports suggest that Pyongyang is also preparing a large-scale military parade to mark the occasion.