A £77 million bridge is being constructed to link North Korea with Russia, expected to be completed by 2026. Awarded to a small Sochi firm, the project follows a visit from Putin to North Korea. Preparatory work is ongoing, with North Korea optimistic about US-Russia diplomatic relations.
A £77 million bridge is currently under construction to connect northern North Korea with eastern Russia, spanning 2.92 miles over the Tumen River. Located near Vladivostok, this bridge will be constructed alongside an existing railway bridge that has facilitated rail transport between the two regions since 1959. The completion of this project is anticipated by the end of 2026.
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a decree in February to award the construction contract to TonnelYuzhStroi, a small yet inexperienced firm based in Sochi, as reported by NK News. Although construction has not yet commenced, the project received approval following President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024.
Alexander Matsegora, Russia’s ambassador to North Korea, confirmed that construction preparations are underway, including finalizing design documentation and equipment setups. Additionally, he mentioned that the North Korean side is optimistic regarding recent diplomatic exchanges between Washington and Moscow, especially concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Matsegora revealed that during a recent visit to Pyongyang, Sergey Shoygu, Secretary of the Russian Security Council, updated Kim Jong-un about these US-Russia communications. He assured that North Koreans have no concerns about their bilateral relationship with Russia and reaffirmed the strong bonds of friendship between the two countries, formed through shared sacrifices.
The construction of the £77 million bridge signifies a strengthening connection between North Korea and Russia, anticipated for completion by the end of 2026. The project, awarded to TonnelYuzhStroi, is currently in the preparatory phase. Diplomatic engagements between the two nations, especially concerning interactions with the US, indicate a solid strategic partnership, undeterred by external pressures.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
