Experts at the Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion Along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway declared that new inroads to cooperation could be made via better transportation connectivity in the region.
The conference was held in Khon Kaen, Thailand on Tuesday, 19th August.
According to Mekong Institute executive director Suriyan Vichitlekarn: "Transport connectivity, particularly the railway system, is a strategic economic corridor for boosting economic growth, regional resilience and deepening intercountry integration across the Greater Mekong Subregion.”
Indeed, the railway which takes travellers from the Golden Triangle to the Chinese mainland stands to benefit fields as diverse as health and wellness, tourism, logistics, and the creative sector.
Vichitlekarn said: "Logistics efficiency is a tangible leap forward for cross-border trade facilitation. The railway brings exciting possibilities for revitalizing regional tourism. It catalyzes inclusive economic opportunities, particularly for cultural and community-based tourism.”
Cooperative efforts
Organised by the Mekong Institute, the conference was co-hosted by the Chinese Consulate General in Khon Kaen and the Foreign Affairs Office of China's Yunnan province.
Over 300 participants attended, including government officials, scholars and industry representatives from China, Laos, Thailand, and other nations within Southeast Asia
Chinese consul-general to Khon Kaen Liu Hongmei said at the event: "The cooperation practice of the China-Laos-Thailand Railway is a vivid example of mutual benefit and win-win between China and its neighboring countries. The conference provides a mechanism guarantee for the railway to fully exert its benefits."
Liu added that, with greater logistics efficiency and deeper tourism collaboration ahead, the railway will not only serve as a driver of regional economic growth but also as a bridge bringing people across the region closer.
While the Thai section remains under construction, it is expected that the completed China-Laos-Thailand Railway will connect Bangkok with Yunnan via Laos, where a high-speed line is already in operation.
The project's second phase in Thailand is expected to be operational by 2030.
More than another link
Likewise, Thai vice-minister of tourism and sports Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham pointed out how the railway is more than just a physical link: it also serves as a strategic gateway connecting China with Southeast Asia.
As such, it will be a driving force for the tourism industry that links cultural, natural and creative destinations across the region.
However, Tangsutthitham also pointed out that having the infrastructure alone is not enough, citing the need for active cross-border coordination.
Apart from streamlining border crossings and improving customs and immigration processes, involved parties also need to engage and empower local communities as stakeholders along the railway route to enhance services and create more attractions.
