China and Laos open joint pilot training centre north of Vientiane
· 50-word read
In 50 words
China and Laos inaugurated a jointly run pilot training centre on 29 September at a new airfield at Ban Keun, about 50km north of Vientiane, China's defence ministry said. Thailand's defence ministry spokesperson told Reuters that approving it is Laos's sovereign right.
Why it matters
Laos shares a long border with Thailand. Thailand, a US treaty ally, says it is a close partner of both Laos and China, so regional military ties in Laos are closely watched.
Key dates
- 29 SeptemberChina's defence ministry says the China-Laos Joint Support and Training Centre was officially inaugurated.
- 30 SeptemberSatellite images reviewed by Reuters show a runway of about 2,000 metres with eight aircraft on site.
Ask BangkokScoop AI about this story
Sources
- ABC AustraliaView original →
