Laos-China railway boosts trade and tourism, but also Beijing's clout

In the Laotian border town of Boten, the arrival of a sleek, modern train on a route that connects with southern China is a sign of growing trade and tourism links between one of Southeast Asia's poorest countries and its giant neighbour. But it also signifies a marked rise in Chinese influence in Laos, and the drawing of the country closer into Beijing's orbit.