Politics / China
Policy and political decisions with potential market and society impact. Topic: China. Updated briefs and structured summaries from curated sources.
President Xi Jinping's old friends
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0.0–300.0
President Xi Jinping's friendship with a Laotian schoolmate spans over 50 years, highlighting personal connections between China and Laos. The China-Laos Railway, which opened in December, has significantly enhanced trade and travel between the two nations.
- An old schoolmate of President Xi Jinping from Laos reflects on their friendship that has lasted over 50 years. This bond began when they attended school together in the 1960s
- During Xis visit to Laos in 2010, he arranged a meeting with his old friend and his sister. They were surprised by his ability to recall many details from their school days
- In November 2017, Xi visited Laos again as president and met the Falsina family after seven years. He expressed happiness to see them in good health and to reconnect with old friends
- The connection between China and Laos extends beyond personal friendships to include significant infrastructure. The China-Laos Railway, which opened in December, serves as a vital link between the two countries
- The railway stretches over 1,000 kilometers and has transformed travel and trade between China and Laos. President Xi noted that mountains and roads are no longer barriers due to this connection
- Since the railways opening, the total value of international freight transported has exceeded 10 billion yuan. This development is part of a broader picture of Chinas joint growth with Southeast Asia and South Asia