A £77 million bridge is being built to connect northern North Korea with eastern Russia, scheduled for completion by 2026. The project, authorized by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, is led by a lesser-known firm in Sochi. Preparatory work is ongoing, and North Korean officials are optimistic about increased dialogue between Washington and Moscow.
A significant infrastructure project is underway, featuring the construction of a £77 million bridge connecting northern North Korea and eastern Russia. Spanning 2.92 miles, this bridge will be situated near Vladivostok and is projected to be completed by the end of 2026. The new bridge will be constructed across the Tumen River, which serves as a natural border among Russia, North Korea, and China, complementing an existing railway bridge that has been operational since 1959.
The initiative gained traction when Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a decree in February, awarding the construction contract to a lesser-known firm, TonnelYuzhStroi, based in Sochi. Although construction has yet to commence, it was authorized following President Vladimir Putin’s diplomatic visit to North Korea in 2024. Preparatory activities, including design finalization and construction crew assembly, are currently in progress, as confirmed by Alexander Matsegora, Russia’s ambassador to North Korea.
As the project advances, Matsegora highlighted that North Korean officials maintain a positive outlook toward increasing communication between Washington and Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He elaborated that discussions between Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoygu and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un were held during a recent visit to Pyongyang. Matsegora assured that North Korea does not perceive any threat to the enduring partnership and friendship between the two nations, forged through historical conflicts.
The construction of a £77 million bridge between North Korea and Russia marks an important development in regional infrastructure. Set for completion by 2026, this bridge will not only enhance connectivity but also signifies the strengthening of ties between the two nations amidst geopolitical challenges. As preparations are underway, North Korea’s confidence in its partnership with Russia remains unwavering, despite external pressures.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
