Bangkok: The strengthening of Thai-Lao relations in all aspects, pushing for connectivity in transportation, energy, and the regional economy to grow sustainably. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat, addressed the direction of cooperation between Thailand and the Lao People's Democratic Republic during his official visit to Laos with the Prime Minister's delegation. He stated that Thai-Lao transport connectivity is the heart of regional economic development. Various projects are not merely infrastructure projects, but also represent a path of friendship, career opportunities, income, and improved quality of life for people on both sides of the Mekong River.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pipat summarized the progress of important projects that the public will see tangible results from, initially including the 5th Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (Bueng Kan-Borikhamxay) which has been completed and is scheduled to open in December 2025. This bridge will help shorten transportation times and costs, connecting Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, and support tourism and border trade in the Northeast.
Additionally, improvements to the 1st Friendship Bridge (Nong Khai-Vientiane) are underway to support the loading of weight on the U20 axle instead of the original U15, increasing efficiency and safety in freight transport. The new Mekong River railway bridge (near Bridge 1) is currently undergoing detailed design and EIA studies, with construction targeting 2027 and completion in 2030 to support the Laos-China high-speed railway. The Vientiane-Vientiane Capital railway, a 10-km section, is identified as a "missing link" of the rail system. Lao PDR is considering whether it is interested in proceeding with the project.
Mr. Pipat emphasized that the overall goal is to make travel more convenient for citizens, speed up business delivery, lower costs, increase bustling border towns, and provide more job opportunities for youth. The initiatives aim to truly make Thailand and Laos the logistics hub of the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS).
Mr. Chaiyatham Promsorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, added that the Ministry of Transport is ready to implement policies to expedite cooperation with the Lao PDR in all areas, including roads, railways, and public transportation. The most important outcome is the results that the people of both countries will receive, such as more convenient travel or increased opportunities for trade and employment, all of which will truly improve the quality of life of the people.