Mr. Perames Vudthitornetiraks, President of the Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA), revealed that the Council of Ministers of Thailand endorsed a collaborative initiative with the Lao People's Democratic Republic, on April 18, 2024, to upgrade and improve Road 12 (R12), extending from Tha Khaek to the Naphao border crossing. This effort is part of a strategic plan to enhance connectivity not only between Thailand and Laos but also with Vietnam and China's Nan Ning City in Guangxi province through the comprehensive transport network of the Greater Mekong Subregion. Mr. Perames Vudthitornetiraks also stated that this route, which is the shortest compared to Roads 8 (R8) and 9 (R9), will integrate into the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) alongside Thailand’s R9. This development is set to streamline cross-border trade, investment, and tourism, and significantly boost the region’s competitiveness. It also aims to bolster Thailand's role in fostering development and expanding trade and investment opportunities within the subregion.
