Havana, October 5 (RHC)-- President of Laos Choummaly Sayasone concluded Sunday an official visit to Cuba, during which he held talks with Cuban officials, including President Raúl Castro.

During his stay, the Laotian head of state was presented with the José Martí Order –-the highest distinction granted by the Cuban Council of State-- in recognition of his long-lasting friendship and solidarity with the Cuban nation and people.

Before boarding the plane that would take him home, Sayasone expressed that the high distinction bestowed upon him signaled the great importance Cuba grants to friendship and cooperation relations with Laos.

Cuba and Laos established diplomatic relations on November 1st, 1974. Bilateral cooperation focuses primarily on health and education.