China–Laos border
The border between China and Laos is a 423 km long line separating the northern Laotian provinces of Luang Namtha, Oudomxai and Phongsali from the southern Chinese province of Yunnan. On the east begins in the triple border as Vietnam, heading west, go south and follow west to triple border of the two countries with Myanmar.
Laos obtained a partial independence from France in 1949, around the time when Mao Zedong established the People's Republic of China after defeating Chiang Kai Shek's nationalist government in the Chinese Civil War. Consequently, China's adaptation of Stalinist principles in the form of Maoism influenced Laotian politics, fuelling demands for total independence from France, which was granted in 1953. Along with China, Laos was involved in the Vietnam War from 1964. The border between the country and the People's Republic of China at that time was officially set.
There are two border crossings. The main one is located at Boten. A second crossing is at Lantouy further northeast (only for Chinese and Laotian citizens). There is no railway crossing the border, but the Vientiane–Boten railway and the Yuxi–Mohan railway are under construction and will connect Kunming with Vientiane.
Historical maps
Historical maps of the border from west to east in the International Map of the World, Operational Navigation Chart and Tactical Pilotage Chart, late 20th century:
