Japan sparing no effort in helping Laos attain economic growth: Aso+

TOKYO, May 20 Kyodo -
Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso said Wednesday that Japan is sparing no effort
in helping Laos attain stable economic growth when he met with Lao Prime
Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh in Tokyo, according to the Japanese Foreign
Ministry.

''Japan will continue to provide cooperation to Laos so that the country can
achieve stable economic growth,'' Aso was quoted by a ministry official as
telling him in their meeting at the premier's office.
''An increasing number of Japanese companies have been turning their eyes to
Laos as an appealing investment destination in recent years,'' Aso was quoted
as saying. ''To lead (their interest) to actual investment, it is important
(for Laos) to improve the investment environment in the country.''
The Lao prime minister said in return, ''Japan is the biggest donor country for
Laos. On behalf of the Lao people, I deeply appreciate the Japanese people's
support for Laos,'' according to the ministry official.
Aso told Bouasone that he hopes to invite Lao President Choummaly Sayasone to
Japan in early 2010, a year that will mark the 55th anniversary of the
countries' establishment of diplomatic relations.
==Kyodo