Editor's Note: On December 3, 2024, marking the third anniversary of the opening of the China-Laos Railway, this steel dragon serves as a vital link connecting the deep friendship and vibrant development between China and Laos. Over the past three years, countless touching stories and inspiring dreams have intertwined along this railway. At this important moment, Kunming Information Hub has conducted in-depth interviews with individuals from various circles in both countries, showcasing the profound transformations and wide-ranging impacts brought by the China-Laos Railway through their perspectives. The series "the Train to Prosperity - Third Anniversary of China-Laos Railway" will take you through the corridor connecting the two countries, listen to the voices of Chinese and Lao people, and deeply experience the strong momentum of cooperation and immense potential for sustainable development.

With the opening of the China-Laos Railway, various sectors along the route have embraced unprecedented development opportunities, ranging from logistics and transportation to cultural tourism, trade cooperation, and educational exchanges. Over the past three years, the relationship between China and Laos has grown increasingly close, highlighting the importance of Chinese and Lao as communication bridges, sparking a quiet but growing enthusiasm for language learning.

Huang Junjie, the founder of the Sunshine Laos Language App

Huang Junjie, the founder of the Sunshine Laos Language App, focuses on translation work between China and Laos as well as Chinese and Lao language education. "Since the railway opened, more people have come to know Laos, and the exchanges between our two countries have become closer." Reflecting on the changes since the opening of the China-Laos Railway, Huang Junjie is filled with emotions.

Over the past two years, he has witnessed significant changes in Mohan since Kunming took over its management. These changes are evident not only in urban appearance and infrastructures but also in cultural and economic exchanges. "Everything is accelerating!" Huang Junjie stated.

"The roads have become wider, regional infrastructure has improved, and the exchanges between the people of China and Laos have become more frequent." After Kunming took over the management of Mohan, the number of Laotians coming to China for work has significantly increased, leading to more cultural and social exchanges between the two countries.

For Huang Junjie, the most personal feeling is busyness. As exchanges between China and Laos increase, the demand for translation services has surged, resulting in a heavier workload for him, but also bringing more job opportunities.

"For us translators, the volume of work has increased, and business is better than in previous years." To help more professionals seize new opportunities for China-Laos cooperation, Huang Junjie has specifically set up Lao language training classes. These classes cover core content such as basic grammar and vocabulary but also emphasize the practical application of skills. Through diversified teaching methods like simulated business scenarios and cultural exchange activities, students can quickly master Lao communication skills in a short period of time.

CCTV Economic News Interview with Huang Junjie

Whether in business negotiations, cultural exchanges, or tourism services,  translators play a crucial role in all of these areas. They build communication bridges using their professional knowledge and language skills, promoting friendly cooperation and mutual development between China and Laos.

Looking to the future, Huang is full of expectations. He believes that with the support of the China-Laos Railway and the Mohan-Moding Economic Cooperation Zone, Mohan will become an important hub for cultural exchanges and trade between China and Laos. "This is not only a transportation hub but will also be a focal point for cultural and business activities. For residents looking to open shops or start small businesses, this area is a land full of investment potential." (Kunming Information Port, Reporter Zhang Yu)

Click here to view the Chinese report

(Editors: Jennifer, Rachel)