Previously, the border gate involvednumerous steps, stages, and stops to cross, losing time and reducingefficiency. Within the new model, border officials from both nationswill work together in one gate checkpoint, simplifying immigration andcustoms procedures.
This is the first time the modelhas been applied in a border gate along the East-West Economic Corridoras well as between the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) and ASEANcountries.
Addressing the launchingceremony, Deputy PM Phuc said the application of the model is part ofjoint efforts between Vietnam and Laos to create a smoothbusiness environment and increase border trade and investment betweenthe two countries, contributing to the formation of an ASEAN Communityby the end of this year.
He expressed his hope themodel’s success will set an example for expansions to otherinternational border gates across the East-West Economic Corridor andother important corridors in the GMS in general, realising the agreementto facilitate travel and the transport of goods across borders signedby the GMS states.
He continued to say he believesthat the success of the model at the Lao Bao-Densavan internationalborder gate will contribute to Laos ’ desire to become an inland bridgefor Mekong regional countries.
At the same time,the model is expected to help Quang Tri and Sananakhet provinces utilisetheir role as bridgeheads of the two nations, maximising theirpotential and contributing to socio-economic growth of both localities.
Commenced in 2005 and piloted since January 5 ofthis year, the model is hoped to benefit import-export and entrance-exitactivities, while contributing to increased transparency and decreasedtax loss in State management of the gates.-VNA