The first train of the regular sea-rail transit route linking Chongqing Municipality in Southwest China and Singapore is seen before departure in Chongqing on September 25, 2017.

The first train of the regular sea-rail transit route linking Chongqing Municipality in Southwest China and Singapore is seen before departure in Chongqing on September 25, 2017. This event marks a significant milestone in the China-Singapore (Chongqing) Demonstration Initiative on Strategic Connectivity, which is the third government-to-government cooperation project between China and Singapore. The initiative is committed to driving the open development of western China and even broader areas.

With Chongqing as its headquarters, the initiative's cooperation themes focus on modern connectivity and a modern service economy. In the initial stage, it focuses on cooperation in four key areas: financial services, aviation, transportation and logistics, and information and communications. It will gradually expand to other areas. It supports the Belt and Road Initiative, fosters the development of western regions, and bolsters the growth of the Yangtze River Economic Belt.

The New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a significant strategic passage developed jointly by China and Singapore, traverses the western regions of China, connecting to Southeast Asia and beyond. Through regional collaboration and international cooperation, this corridor generates multiple economic benefits and serves as a public good and service for both the western regions of China and ASEAN countries.

As of June 30, 2022, 211 commercial and government cooperation projects had been signed, totaling $25.22 billion. Similarly, 233 financial cooperation projects had been signed, totaling $28.87 billion.

This article was updated on April 9, 2024.