Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow, a key player in this historic venture, flagged off the inaugural Thai train loaded with the jewel of Thai agriculture – dried longan. This marks the commencement of the New Land-Sea Corridor project, a brainchild of China, aimed at knitting together rail networks between Southeast Asia, China, and Europe.
Chongqing, a colossal mega-city in southwestern China with a population soaring over 31 million, is the heartbeat of this ambitious project. This railway artery now allows Thailand to export a cornucopia of farm-fresh delights not only to China but beyond.
Simultaneously, in Chongqing, a cargo train loaded with industrial sodium sulfate embarked on its journey to Thailand. The launch ceremony, presided over by Chongqing’s vice mayor and attended by officials from the Thai consulate in Chengdu and Laos embassy, symbolized the seamless interconnection between nations.
The Thai train, brimming with delectable durians, mangosteens, longans, and coconuts, destined for the tables of China. The Chinese counterpart, carrying industrial sodium sulfate, ready to contribute to Thailand’s industries. From 2024, the cargo repertoire expands to include frozen chicken, set to wing its way to the eager palates of western China.
These railway links aren’t just about connecting tracks; they’re part of the grand Belt and Road Initiative, weaving an intricate web connecting Asia with Africa and Europe. As these trains chug along, they symbolize more than just commerce – they signify a world getting smaller, closer, and more connected.
