Russia and North Korea are constructing a £77 million bridge to connect northern North Korea with eastern Russia by 2026. This project, awarded to the inexperienced firm TonnelYuzhStroi, is still in preparatory stages. The development underscores the ongoing strategic partnership between the two nations, especially amid diplomatic interactions regarding the Ukraine conflict.
Russia and North Korea are collaborating on the construction of a significant £77 million bridge, spanning 2.92 miles, which is projected to be completed by the end of 2026. This new car bridge will connect northern North Korea to eastern Russia, specifically near Vladivostok, adjacent to an existing railway bridge across the Tumen River, which serves as a boundary between Russia, North Korea, and China.
In February, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin authorized the project, awarding it to TonnelYuzhStroi, a small firm from Sochi lacking extensive experience in such constructions, as reported by NK News. Although construction has yet to commence, it received clearance following President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024. The new bridge will be built near the historical “Friendship Bridge”, which has facilitated rail connectivity since 1959.
Russia’s ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, confirmed to RIA that the bridge’s construction has not started. He noted that preparatory activities are ongoing, including finalizing design documents and organizing construction teams. Furthermore, Matsegora indicated that North Korea views the recent US-Russia diplomatic interactions regarding the Ukraine conflict favorably, as North Korean troops have been involved in this war.
Additionally, the ambassador revealed that during a visit to Pyongyang, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoygu briefed North Korean leader Kim Jong-un about this recent diplomatic engagement between the US and Russia. He emphasized that North Korea maintains confidence in their strategic partnership with Russia, stating that their relationship is strengthened by shared experiences and historical ties.
In summary, the collaboration between Russia and North Korea on the construction of a significant bridge aims to enhance connectivity between the two nations. The £77 million project has received governmental approval, though construction has yet to commence. The diplomatic interactions between the US and Russia also reflect evolving dynamics, which North Korea perceives positively, underpinning their enduring alliance.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
