Russia and North Korea are constructing a £77 million bridge spanning 2.92 miles to connect the two nations by the end of 2026. Preparatory work has begun but construction has not yet started. The bridge will link northern North Korea with eastern Russia, located near Vladivostok, alongside the existing railway bridge.
A new bridge, costing £77 million, is being constructed to connect northern North Korea with eastern Russia, specifically near Vladivostok. This 2.92-mile car bridge will be situated alongside an existing railway bridge. The construction will span the Tumen River, which demarcates the borders of Russia, North Korea, and China, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The project was approved by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in February and has been awarded to TonnelYuzhStroi, a relatively inexperienced firm based in Sochi, according to NK News. Although construction has not yet commenced, preparatory activities are underway following President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024.
Ambassador Alexander Matsegora stated, “The construction of the bridge has not yet begun” and elaborated that preparations involve finalizing design documents and organizing construction teams and equipment. The bridge will be located adjacent to the “Friendship Bridge,” which has facilitated rail connectivity between Russia and North Korea since 1959.
In addition to discussing the bridge, Matsegora mentioned the positive atmosphere in Pyongyang regarding recent communications between the United States and Russia concerning the conflict in Ukraine, where North Korean forces have been involved. He indicated that South Korean officials are optimistic about the enduring partnership between North Korea and Russia, emphasizing the historical ties between their nations.
In summary, the construction of a £77 million bridge linking North Korea and Russia is set for completion by the end of 2026, connecting the two countries over the Tumen River. Although construction has not yet begun, preparations are in progress. The diplomatic relations between the two nations remain strong, with North Korea appreciative of the ongoing dialogue between Washington and Moscow regarding regional conflicts.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
