The Laos-China Railway is set to open for cross-border service between the two countries on April 13, according to the governor of Luang Namtha province.
The announcement was made during a visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith, and other officials to oversee preparations for the railway’s opening.
The first cross-border passenger train between Laos and China is expected to run the day before the Lao New Year holiday on April 13. After welcoming the delegation, Mr. Viengsavath updated the Deputy PM on the service readiness, including checkpoints for people entering and exiting the country, and personnel and service equipment required to facilitate passenger travel through the international checkpoint of the Laos-China Railway.
Upon being briefed, Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith instructed all relevant central and local parties, including the Laos-China Railway Company and the Special Economic Zone in the region, to work together and ensure the successful completion of preparations for the official opening ceremony of the Laos-China Railway International Crossing.
Earlier this month, the Prime Minister of Laos, Sonexay Siphandone, ordered the establishment of immigration booths at train stations along the Laos-China Railway to manage the rising demand for rail travel. The booths will cater to inbound and outbound travelers and be set up by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.
