Russia and North Korea Collaborate on New Bridge Project Worth £77 Million
Russia and North Korea are constructing a £77 million bridge to link the two countries, with a planned completion by late 2026. The bridge, adjacent to an existing railway bridge, will span the Tumen River. Preparatory work has commenced, and representatives express optimism regarding bilateral relations amidst global tensions.
Russia and North Korea are embarking on the construction of a 2.92-mile bridge, estimated to cost £77 million, aimed at linking northern North Korea with eastern Russia by the end of 2026. This bridge will be built adjacent to an existing railway bridge over the Tumen River, which serves as a border between the three nations—Russia, North Korea, and China.
Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has authorized the bridge’s development to a relatively novice firm, TonnelYuzhStroi, based in Sochi. Although actual construction has yet to commence, it received approval following President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024. The new bridge will be positioned near the long-established “Friendship Bridge,” operational since 1959, which facilitates rail travel between the two countries.
According to Alexander Matsegora, Russia’s ambassador to North Korea, “The construction of the bridge has not yet begun.” He elaborated that both parties are currently engaged in preparatory tasks, including finalizing design documents and assembling the necessary construction teams and equipment.
Ambassador Matsegora also remarked on the positive outlook from Pyongyang concerning the ongoing communications between Washington and Moscow regarding the Ukraine conflict, which has seen North Korean troops involved. He mentioned that Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoygu updated North Korean leader Kim Jong-un about these interactions during a visit to Pyongyang, emphasizing the firm partnership and friendship shared between their nations.
Despite the complex geopolitical dynamics, Matsegora stated, “Our Korean friends do not have even a shadow of concern that they can somehow influence the comprehensive strategic partnership between our countries,” highlighting the enduring ties reinforced by historical support for one another.
The construction of a £77 million bridge linking Russia and North Korea denotes a significant engineering and diplomatic endeavor. Slated for completion in 2026, the project aims to enhance cross-border connectivity while reinforcing the partnership between the two countries amidst prevalent geopolitical tensions. Preparatory steps are ongoing, with the Russian ambassador expressing confidence in the relationship between the nations despite external influences.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
