Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – With the increasing number of train passengers on the Bangkok Apivat-Vientiane (Khamsavath) line, railway operators in Laos and Thailand have agreed to work together to enhance rail connectivity.
Since the line began operation in July 2024 and January 2025, approximately 288,700 passengers have used the service, highlighting the growing popularity of rail travel.
The increase in passenger numbers prompted the prime ministers of Laos and Thailand to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on strengthening technical cooperation in railway passenger transport.
According to a report on The Nation TV's Facebook page on February 21, the MOU was signed in Bangkok on Thursday, with Thai Prime Minister Patongdan Shinawatra and visiting Lao Prime Minister Somxay Siphandone presiding over the signing ceremony.
According to a press release from the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at the invitation of Mrs. Patongdan, Prime Minister Somxay led a delegation of senior government officials on an official visit to the Kingdom of Thailand to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries in promoting growth and sustainable development.
Veeris Ammarapala, President of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), and Daochinda Siharath, General Manager of the Lao National Railway, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for railway cooperation, witnessed by representatives of their respective organizations.
This agreement is one of four cooperation documents signed during Prime Minister Sonexay's visit, covering areas such as justice, railway passenger transport, trade, and investment promotion.
At the signing ceremony, SRT President Veeris stated that the MOU paves the way for building an interconnected railway network, aiming to improve public transport and promote tourism between the two countries, thereby strengthening the long-standing relationship between Thailand and Laos.
Thailand has consistently supported Lao railway personnel, ensuring the smooth operation of border stations, particularly Nong Khai in Thailand and Tha Na Leng in Vientiane.
This includes providing locomotives, rolling stock, operating personnel, revenue-sharing mechanisms, compliance with operating regulations, accident assistance, and financial settlement related to passenger services.
Since the opening of the Bangkok Apivat-Vientiane railway line in July 2024, locals and tourists have responded positively.
Khamsavath Station, located in Vientiane's Saysettha district, is the northernmost station on the direct railway line between the capitals of Laos and Thailand. This railway line was built to boost tourism and improve logistics between the two countries.
