VIENTIANE, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Laos will continue to closely work with Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) countries to move LMC cooperation forwards to a higher level.

The message came on Friday as Lao Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith congratulated LMC countries on a three-year anniversary since the sub-regional cooperation mechanism was launched in 2016.

LMC has become a platform for effective cooperation in the sub-region and has significantly contributed to the socio-economic development of member countries, the Lao foreign minister said, quoted by local daily Vientiane Times.

Saleumxay said that on this occasion, "I would like to express my sincere appreciation to" all Mekong countries, especially to China for its continued support, assistance and constructive engagement.