The China-Laos Railway, which began its international passenger service on April 13, 2023, has reached a significant milestone by handling over 222,000 cross-border passenger trips as of last Friday, according to officials at the Mohan border checkpoint in Yunnan Province, southwest China.
Since its inception, more than 1,000 international passenger trains have traversed the line, welcoming travelers from 96 countries and regions. The railway has quickly become the preferred mode of transport for international travelers, thanks to its affordability, convenience, and comfort.
Spanning 1,035 kilometers, the China-Laos Railway connects Kunming in China with Vientiane in Laos and is a cornerstone of the Belt and Road initiative. To enhance the travel experience, the local border inspection department has equipped its personnel with intelligent language translation devices capable of translating over 70 languages in real-time, facilitating seamless communication between staff and passengers.
Moreover, the railway has significantly streamlined the customs process, reducing clearance time from three hours to just two. This efficiency, combined with the railway's strategic position as part of the Kunming-Singapore Railway Project—which links Kunming to Singapore via Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia—underscores its pivotal role in regional connectivity and economic integration.
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China-Laos Railway records over 222,000 cross-border passengers
cgtn.com
