China's footprint in Latin America continues to expand as a Chinese state-owned construction company has secured the rights develop Chile's largest railway project.

The deal, awarded to China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), includes a 38-mile freight and passenger rail line connecting Santiago and Melipilla. Chilean officials said the project, once completed, would transport up to 60 million passengers annually and reduce commute times to just 25 minutes between the two cities. It is expected to be completed within six years.

Newsweek contacted the CRCC via email for more information on the project.

Why It Matters

The $500 million railway contract, won by CRCC subsidiary China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, marks the latest chapter in China's Belt and Road Initi

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