Khamsay Soulinthone, chairman of the Laos Bar Association speaks at the forum. [Photo for China Daily]

Practical guidance

According to Jiang Junlu, deputy director of the lawyers' association's international commission, last month, lawyers from top-tier law firms in China and participating countries compiled two books containing practical guidance on laws related to foreign investment.

Jiang said the advice included in the books covers laws related to investment, trade, labor, environmental conservation, intellectual property and dispute resolution.

The first volume, which focuses on investment laws in 43 countries, including Myanmar, the Philippines and Russia, has already been published. The second, related to the remaining 22 countries, will be published at the end of the year.

"This guidance will enable Chinese politicians, businesspeople and experts to fully understand the legal systems and environments involved in the initiative and provide legal support for Chinese businesses to ensure they have safe, smooth investments abroad," Jiang said.

Khamsay Soulinthone, chairman of the Laos Bar Association, said: "The idea of the Belt and Road Initiative put forward by China is very creative and considered revolutionary. Although lawyers in different countries face different challenges, they all work for global equality and justice. It's the right time to set up a regional lawyers' cooperation organization."