The Nam Ou River Cascade Hydropower Project in Laos was declared a key project -- and was reported on extensively -- in a special issue of the publication China-Laos Economic Cooperation Prospect distributed by the Embassy of Laos in?Beijing on Dec 2.

The special issue was published to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic.

The Nam Ou River hydroelectric power plant in Laos appears in a special publication. [Photo/POWERCHINA]

Constructed by POWERCHINA, the hydroelectric power project in Laos is known locally as the dazzling "seven pearls" embedded in the Belt and Road.

It is the first hydroelectric power development project being undertaken by a Chinese company involving overall river basin planning and a build-operate-transfer, or BOT, investment model.

The project is being developed in two phases. The three units in the first phase entered operation in April 2016, after which the construction on the four units of the second phase began and will start operations within the year.

When completed, it will contribute to more than 12 percent of Laos' power supply. It will also power the country's industrial upgrading, major infrastructure construction and urbanization, helping lift Laos out of poverty.

During construction, the project has also gradually improved infrastructure conditions in the basin area. He said it has increased employment and boosted environmental protection.

Other positive influences have included reducing poverty and expanding economic development, dividends that have flowed into related industries and public welfare undertakings.

The Lao-China Economic Cooperation Prospect is published in both Chinese and English.

It aims to provide important information related to investment opportunities in Laos, fully demonstrate the economic characteristics and attractions of the country, encourage more foreign direct investment and promote the development of China-Laos cooperation.