In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, China and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic have issued a joint statement pledging to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation. The statement was released on Saturday during Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s official visit to Laos from October 11 to 12, at the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.
The two nations agreed to deepen practical cooperation under the strategic alignment of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Laos’ national strategy to “convert the landlocked country into a land-linked hub”. This collaboration aims to implement the cooperation plan for jointly building the Belt and Road between the two countries, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic development in the region.
A key highlight of the joint statement is the commitment to advance the China-Laos Railway’s operation, maintenance, and development with high quality. Both sides expressed their intention to expedite progress on the “juxtaposed border control” mechanism for the railway, aiming for substantial achievements in the near future. Furthermore, they strive to connect the standard gauge of the China-Laos Railway with Thailand’s railway at an early date, promoting the implementation of the China-Laos-Thailand Connectivity Development Corridor Outlook.
China expressed appreciation for Laos’ interest in cooperating on Chinese commercial aircraft and welcomed Lao aviation enterprises to introduce these aircraft into their fleet. This move is expected to enhance aviation connectivity and support the development of Laos’ aviation industry.
The joint statement also emphasized the commitment to further strengthen trade exchanges and increase the scale and level of bilateral trade. China and Laos agreed to implement a zero-tariff arrangement for 100 percent of Lao products exported to China, facilitating greater market access. Additionally, efforts will be made to promote more high-quality Lao agricultural and food exports to the Chinese market.
The deepening cooperation between China and Laos signifies a shared commitment to fostering economic growth, enhancing regional connectivity, and promoting mutual prosperity. The strengthened partnership is poised to have a positive impact not only on the two nations but also on the broader Southeast Asian region.
Reference(s):
China, Laos issue joint statement pledging strengthened cooperation
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