The China-Laos Railway, a symbol of international cooperation and connectivity, has reached a significant milestone by handling over 222,000 cross-border passenger trips as of Friday. This achievement comes just months after launching its international passenger service on April 13, 2023, according to the Mohan border checkpoint in southwest China’s Yunnan Province.
Since its inauguration, over 1,000 international passenger trains have traversed the route, serving travelers from 96 countries and regions. The railway’s affordability, convenience, and comfort have made it the preferred mode of transport for a growing number of international travelers.
The 1,035-kilometer railway connects Kunming, the capital of China’s Yunnan Province, with Vientiane, the capital of Laos. As a landmark project of the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, the China-Laos Railway began operation in December 2021, opening new avenues for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
To streamline customs clearance procedures, local border inspection departments have implemented innovative solutions. Personnel are now equipped with intelligent language translation devices capable of translating over 70 languages in real time. This technology has significantly improved communication between staff and foreign passengers, reducing the customs clearance time from the initial three hours to just two hours.
The railway is part of the broader Kunming-Singapore Railway Project, which aims to connect Kunming with Singapore, passing through Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia. This expansive network is expected to further enhance regional integration and economic development across Southeast Asia.
As more travelers choose the China-Laos Railway for its efficiency and comfort, the project continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening ties between China and its neighboring countries, embodying the spirit of collaboration and shared prosperity.
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China-Laos Railway records over 222,000 cross-border passengers
cgtn.com
