A travelogue book on the touching stories that have taken place during the building and operating of the China-Laos Railway, a cross-border railway linking southwest China’s Kunming City with the Lao capital Vientiane, was published on December 3, the first anniversary of the operation of the high-profile rail line.

　　The book, authored by Wang Xiong, was jointly designed by Yunnan’s Provincial Publicity Department and CHINA RAILWAY, and co-published by Yunnan Publishing Group Co., Ltd., and Yunnan Education Publishing House. The book is also included on a list of key publications launched by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee.

　　China-Laos railway provides huge momentum in strengthening Laos’ economy. The value of international freight handled on the railway has surpassed RMB 12.2 billion one year after the railway was put into operation, and the freight has been sent to more than 10 countries involved in the BRI such as Laos and Thailand. Besides, it has also significantly bolstered passenger transportation, thus playing an increasingly prominent role as a “golden corridor”.

　　The line carries dreams, brings new hope and opportunities for Lao people, and benefits those involved in the construction and operation of the railway.

　　The railway also links many can’t-miss destinations worthy of a visit along the route, including wild Asian elephant habitats, tropical rain forests, magnificent mountains and rivers, as well as a slew of world cultural heritage sites, nature reserves and scenic spots.

　　The book combines words and pictures in an appealing format with the author’s appreciation of scenes along the rail line, telling stories of the extraordinary journey the railway builders and operators have gone through. Readers can get a deep understanding of the new look, changes and prospects brought about by the railway.