Northern provinces discuss cross-border transport cooperation with China

The focus of the meeting was on enhancing mutual support for infrastructure development, particularly in the areas of expressways, railways and waterways connecting the two countries.

Discussions highlighted the importance of integrated road transport networks and active collaboration in advising the two government and governmental agencies on approval of cross-border transport projects.

Both sides pledged to expedite the planning of a standard gauge railway line connecting Lao Cai with Hanoi and Hai Phong, and build a new railway section linking Lao Cai station and China’s Hekou North station.

Local authorities from both countries are working to streamline internal and bilateral procedures to facilitate faster upgrades of existing border gates, open new crossings, and promote cross-border commercial activities.

Both sides have maintained a mechanism for regular exchanges, coordinated issuance and inspection of international road transport permits between Vietnam and China, along with the provision of motor vehicle insurance services for vehicles involved in cross-border transport.

The same day, a delegation from the Yunnan provincial Department of Transport conducted on-site surveys of several cross-border infrastructure projects in Lao Cai.