Press Launch Amplifies Trilateral Cooperation on Logistics and Tourism along the China–Laos–Thailand Railway

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Press Launch Amplifies Trilateral Cooperation on Logistics and Tourism along the China–Laos–Thailand Railway

Press Launch Amplifies Trilateral Cooperation on Logistics and Tourism along the China–Laos–Thailand Railway

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025, Khon Kaen, Thailand –– Media representatives gathered at the Mekong Institute (MI) for a press launch that set the stage for the upcoming Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion along the China–Laos–Thailand Railway, to be held on August 19, 2025. The press conference also marked the official debut of the “Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Northeast Thailand” campaign—a people-driven initiative designed to elevate Isan’s visibility as a tourism hub connected by the regional railway network.

Jointly organized by MI, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Khon Kaen, and the Foreign Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Yunnan Province, China, the event underscored a shared vision of using infrastructure and connectivity to foster inclusive development, economic integration, and people-to-people cooperation among China, Lao PDR, and Thailand.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Yang Ning, Deputy Consulate General, Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Khon Kaen affirmed the railway’s role as a new engine of regional transformation. “Today’s press launch marks not only the beginning of a campaign but the continuation of a shared vision among our three countries. The China–Laos–Thailand Railway is a symbol of regional friendship and sustainable development. It is creating new momentum for cross-border trade and tourism, while strengthening people-to-people bonds. Through the upcoming conference and initiatives like the ‘Top 10 Tourist Destinations’ campaign, we are opening new doors of opportunity for local communities, businesses, and travelers alike. China remains committed to supporting regional integration through practical cooperation and shared prosperity.”

Building on this momentum, Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, Executive Director of MI, emphasized that the China–Laos–Thailand Railway is more than a physical link—it is a strategic pathway for economic recovery and regional resilience. “This is not just a transport corridor—it’s a transformative platform for sustainable logistics, tourism, and inclusive growth,” he stated, as he introduced the main objectives of the forthcoming August 19 conference.

A highlight of the press launch was the unveiling of the “Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Northeast Thailand” campaign. Running from July 18 to August 8, the campaign invites the public to vote on MI’s official Facebook page for outstanding travel destinations in Isan that are accessible via the China–Laos–Thailand Railway. Voters who engage with the campaign by reacting and commenting on their preferred destinations will be entered into a raffle draw, with winners receiving travel vouchers valued at up to 5,000 THB. The winning destinations and raffle recipients will be announced during the main conference.

According to Mr. Suriyan, the campaign aims to elevate the visibility of local destinations, particularly those that celebrate cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and community-based experiences. “This is an opportunity to shine a light on the richness of Isan while actively involving travelers and local communities in shaping the tourism narrative along the railway,” she said.

The press launch, attended by more than 40 participants both onsite and online, concluded with a Q&A session, interviews, and networking. The event not only generated media interest but also reinforced the importance of coordinated communication efforts in amplifying regional initiatives. The Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion along the China–Laos–Thailand Railway will
take place on August 19, 2025, at the Pullman Hotel in Khon Kaen. The event will feature keynote dialogues, thematic breakout discussions, exhibitions, and business matchmaking sessions, bringing together policymakers, industry experts, business leaders, and outstanding entrepreneurs, as well as investors and development partners who are interested in the development of the railway corridor. Discussions will center on strategies to optimize multimodal transport, expand digital logistics infrastructure, enhance cross-border tourism facilitation, and foster public–private–community partnerships that drive sustainable and inclusive regional growth.

For more information about the conference and campaign, visit: www.mekonginstitute.org/conference-on-logistics-and-tourism-promotion-along-the-china-laosthailand-railway

How to Participate in the Conference

Please Note:
• The conference primarily targets stakeholders from China, Lao PDR, and Thailand. For more information, please refer to the concept note and brochure.
• However, a limited number of seats will also be made available for participants from other nationalities, particularly those with a strong interest in investing in and having business related to cross-border trade, logistics and tourism along the China-Laos Thailand railway corridor.
• A limited number of sponsorships are available for early registrants from China, Lao PDR and Thailand, offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
• After registration, a screening process will be conducted. The MI team will review submitted information and follow up with selected participants via email to confirm participation.