Vientiane: Representatives from UN agencies in Laos visited the China-Laos Railway to learn about the project's achievements in promoting regional connectivity, enhancing livelihoods, and advancing sustainable development, as well as to explore opportunities for future cooperation.

According to Namibia Press Agency, nearly 20 representatives from 10 UN agencies in Laos, including the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the International Labor Organization (ILO), took a train at Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway. This visit was organized at the invitation of Chinese Ambassador to Laos Fang Hong.

The delegation's itinerary included key sites such as Vang Vieng Station, the Vang Vieng Freight Business Hall and Yard, Luang Prabang Station, and the Luang Prabang Maintenance Management Center. These visits provided an opportunity for in-depth discussions with railway operators and staff, allowing the delegation to gain a comprehensive understanding of the railway's infrastructure, operations, management systems, safety protocols, and workforce development.

The UN representatives commended the China-Laos Railway for its positive impact on Laos' economic and social development. They highlighted the railway's role in improving travel convenience, offering training and employment opportunities for Lao youth, boosting tourism, and strengthening regional connectivity.

The delegation also expressed interest in exploring future cooperation with the railway to further support Laos' development. The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Laos, Bakhodir Burkhanov, emphasized the railway's significant contribution to enhancing Laos' transportation infrastructure, strengthening connectivity between provinces and communities, and improving accessibility for residents and tourists alike.

Burkhanov noted the railway's potential and stated that the UN will seek opportunities for future cooperation to further support local economic development and improve people's livelihoods.