VIENTIANE: Laos has taken a significant step forward in strengthening its role in regional and international transport after officially joining Corridor 2 of the Organisation for Co-operation between Railways (OSJD), a railway corridor linking Laos with Vietnam, China, Kazakhstan, the Russian Federation and Estonia.
A Memorandum of Understanding acknowledging Laos’ partnership in the scheme was signed during the 53rd OSJD Ministerial Conference held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on June 11-12.
The Lao delegation was led by Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport, Ngampasong Muongmany.
The conference discussed railway transport development and the integration of transport networks among member countries.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport said the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Laos’ participation in the Corridor 2 component was the key outcome of Laos’ attendance at in the conference.
The signing represents an important step in the development of Laos’ railway transport sector and in connecting the country’s rail network to regional and international transport corridors.
The conference was held as the OSJD marks its 70th anniversary this year.
The proceedings were divided into two phases, comprising a preparatory phase on June 9-10 when members reviewed documents and finalised draft resolutions, and a plenary session on June 11-12, which brought together member countries and international guests to discuss and vote on resolutions.
The core agenda was based on the resolutions adopted by the organisation’s second session and the consolidated results of the regular session held in March 2026, according to the VietnamPlus website. - Vientiane Times/ANN
