ABSTRACT
This chapter provides the geo-political context within which the rail line is to be built, and analyses the potential development opportunities generated by the project. China’s interest in the Mekong project will strengthen the cause for a trans-Asia rail-link as the track would be very strategically laid and can serve the landlocked region of Yunnan in the south. The proposed rail-link was planned to become the backbone of the Mekong Basin development initiated by Association of Southeast Asian Nations countries. The prospect for a joint development among riparian states in the Mekong and the opportunity to turn the rail-link plan into reality became brighter with several positive political processes taking place in the region. Besides the ancient cultural attraction, some announced tourism projects by newly opened economies in the region augur well for international train passengers on the proposed Trans-Asian rail track.
