"Imagine a train bridging mountains and cultural divides," says Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone in his exclusive sit-down with China Media Group at the 2025 Boao Forum. Fresh off discussions about ASEAN-China collaboration, the leader opened up about Laos' transformative partnership with its northern neighbor – and even shared childhood memories of studying in Beijing! 📚
🚄 Rails of Progress: A 'Shared Future' in Motion
Since its 2021 launch, the China-Laos Railway has transported over 8M tons of goods and 2M+ passengers – turbocharging Laos' economy. Siphandone called it a "game-changer for regional connectivity," while highlighting plans for green energy projects and smart agriculture under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
👨💻 From School Days to Statecraft
The PM surprised audiences by revealing: "I spent my teenage years in China's Fujian Province." This personal connection, he argues, fuels his commitment to cross-border cooperation. "We're neighbors, partners – and increasingly, family."
Looking ahead, Siphandone hinted at digital economy partnerships and vocational training programs to upskill Lao youth. With China-Laos trade hitting $5.3B last year, analysts say this friendship is writing ASEAN's playbook for modern diplomacy. 🤝
