China is supporting the development of Laos' longest highway, a project aimed at improving transport connectivity in Southeast Asia. This initiative aligns with Beijing's strategy to enhance its economic influence and find alternative trade routes.

China has moved early to help Laos plan its longest highway, the latest project in Beijing’s push to expand transport connectivity in Southeast Asia. The initiative underscores Beijing’s broader effort to strengthen its economic footprint in the region through roads and railway infrastructure, as it seeks alternative trade routes amid a fractious relationship with the United States. Laos is conducting route surveys for an expressway linking the capital Vientiane to its northeastern border with.....