China leveraging Laos to link up its South-East Asian economic interests

Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone attend the inauguration ceremony of the China-aided Mahosot General Hospital building in Vientiane, Laos. - Photo: Xinhua

VIENTIANE (Agencies): China aims to scale up infrastructure construction in uniquely strategic Laos to accelerate trade and investment throughout South-East Asia as Chinese businesses scout for space to grow offshore, analysts said.

China Premier Li Qiang said during a four-day visit to the South-East Asian nation earlier this month that he would work with Laotian officials to turn Laos from landlocked to “land-linked”, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.