LAO CAI, Vietnam, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Vietnamese authorities on Friday kicked off construction of the first component of the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong railway, an important project aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and promoting economic development in northern Vietnam.

At the ceremony, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyen Danh Huy said the project reflects the strong commitment of Vietnam and China to deepening the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and accelerating the building of a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

The project represents a strategic breakthrough in developing a modern national infrastructure system, and is expected to create new growth momentum for the regions it passes through, he added.

The railway will span over 390 km of main track, running through six provinces and cities of Lao Cai, Phu Tho, Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hung Yen, and Hai Phong.

Built to standard gauge, the line is designed for both passenger and freight transport, with maximum speeds of up to 160 km per hour on main sections.

Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam He Wei said the project will further break down geographical barriers, significantly enhance cross-border transport capacity, reduce logistics costs, and facilitate economic circulation.

It will enable connectivity of the supply chains between the two countries and provide strong support for economic development, the ambassador said, expressing hope that both sides would advance the project in a scientific, orderly and steady manner.

The first component of the project involves building the infrastructure of stations and station squares along the line. ■