NLA passes draft Thai-Sino MOU on double track development

BANGKOK, December 4 (TNA) - The National Legislative Assembly (NLA) has approved a draft memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Thai-Sino cooperation on the development of double track projects in Thailand from 2015-2022, in which China will be responsible for construction and system development. The NLA approved the draft MOU on Thursday by the majority vote of 187, with seven abstentions. Thai Transport Minister Air Chief Marshal Prajin Juntong told the assembly that the Chinese government has agreed to help develop the first double track project with standard gauge in Thailand. Air Chief Marshal Prajin stated that the project comprises two routes, including a 734-kilometer-route from Nong Khai Province in the Thai Northeast, through Nakhon Ratchasima and Kaeng Khoi in Saraburi, to the Map Ta Phut Port in Rayong Province in the Thai East and another 133-kilometer-route from Kaeng Khoi to Bangkok. The minister said that the project will offer long-term benefits to people and facilitate connection between China and Thailand and other member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Under the MOU, China will be responsible for the construction and system development and finance the project. According to the minister, both sides have not yet discussed details of repayment. The minister revealed that the construction is expected to start in 2016 and the MOU overrules any similar agreement earlier reached on the project from 2011-2013. (TNA)