the People's Republic to build new Vientiane. The modern Laos with economy growing at 8% for the last 20 years chose no other investors but Chinese. This actually gives Thai a headache. Laotians will no longer buys merchandise, and other supplies from Thailand to resell in Laos because Chinese will bring their stuffs to Laotian markets. Tourists already fall in love with Laos soon will leave Thailand behind their destination. Not to mention that many foreign investors coming to Laos are on the rise.
In the past, Laotians would go to Thailand Shopping Mall, but now it is another way around. As far as preserving culture, Thais can only appraise Lao people.
Western media are full of sh1t when they report Laos China relations.