Russia and North Korea are constructing a £77 million, 2.92-mile car bridge to connect northern North Korea with eastern Russia by 2026. Preparations are underway, with TonnelYuzhStroi assigned to the project after Putin’s 2024 visit. North Korea remains optimistic about US-Russian communications, reinforcing their alliance.
Russia and North Korea are set to construct a significant car bridge costing £77 million, spanning 2.92 miles to connect northern North Korea with eastern Russia. This project, located near Vladivostok, will cross the Tumen River, which serves as a border between Russia, North Korea, and China. The bridge is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026 and will be built adjacent to the existing railway “Friendship Bridge” established in 1959.
The project was recently granted to TonnelYuzhStroi, a small and inexperienced firm based in Sochi, according to reports from NK News. However, construction has not yet commenced, as it awaited approval following President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024. Preparatory activities are currently being undertaken, with work focusing on design documentation and assembling construction crews and necessary equipment.
Russian Ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, confirmed that the construction phase has not yet started but emphasized ongoing preparations. He also noted that North Korea is optimistic about recent communications between the United States and Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict, in which North Korean troops have participated.
Matsegora reiterated the strong relationship between North Korea and Russia, mentioning that Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoygu briefed North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on this dialogue during a recent visit to Pyongyang. He stated that there is no concern from North Korea regarding the stability of their strategic partnership with Russia, which is founded on their shared historical connections.
In summary, the planned bridge between Russia and North Korea signifies a strengthening of ties between the two nations. Set to commence construction soon and completed by 2026, it marks a vital connection over the Tumen River beside the longstanding railway bridge. The ongoing preparations reflect both nations’ commitment to enhancing their strategic partnership amid broader geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
