Moscow [Russia], May 1: The bridge over the Do Mun River will be the first road bridge between Russia and the DPRK, next to the railway bridge that was inaugurated in 1959.
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on May 1, the DPRK believes that the construction of a new bridge connecting Russia is an important step in the relationship between the two countries.
Russia and North Korea on April 30 started construction of a road bridge over the Do Mun River connecting the two countries. The project has been discussed for years but was only agreed upon during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea last year.
"The bridge provides significant guarantees for the construction and consolidation of critical infrastructure for economic cooperation and the promotion of bilateral cooperation, including human travel, tourism and the circulation of goods," according to KCNA.
According to TASS, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin attended the groundbreaking ceremony online. Speaking at the event, he said the project was a "major milestone in Russian-North Korean relations."
On the North Korean side, there was the participation of North Korean Prime Minister Pak Thae-song.
In June last year, North Korea and Russia agreed to build a road bridge across the border river, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 when the leaders of the two countries sign a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty.
"This symbolizes our common intention to strengthen friendly neighborly relations and promote cross-regional cooperation," said Prime Minister Mishustin.
Earlier, Yonhap quoted South Korea's Unification Ministry as saying that North Korea and Russia could hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the bridge, citing satellite images showing relevant Russian facilities and a helipad installed on the Russian side. South Korea also said that North Korea may set off fireworks to celebrate.
Once completed, the 850-meter-long road bridge is expected to facilitate the flow of goods and tourists between the two countries, which have strengthened cooperation in many fields, including military and economic.
Currently, North Korea and Russia have only one railway bridge connecting the area along the Domun River in North Korea and stations in the Russian Khasan region. This bridge was inaugurated in August 1959.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
