The first high-speed passenger shipping line between China and Vietnam has opened.

The line, linking Fangchenggang city, in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Ha Long, Vinh, in Quang Ninh, Vietnam,is expected to promote tourism and economic cooperation between the two countries.

It is the first time Vietnam has opened its inland sea to foreign vessels.

The 80-mile route will be jointly run by the two countries and will take three hours on a high-speed ferry.

(Xinhua News Agency December 31, 2003)