North Korea and Russia Strengthen Ties with New Bridge Construction

North Korea and Russia are building a new bridge across the Tumen River, enhancing their relations. Scheduled for completion in 1.5 years, it will accommodate 2,850 people and 300 vehicles per day. The partnership has deepened, especially in military support amidst ongoing conflicts. Russian Prime Minister Mishustin deemed it a major milestone in their alliance.

North Korea and Russia are embarking on an ambitious project to build a bridge connecting their two countries, aimed at reinforcing their growing relationship. The new road link, which will span the Tumen River, is designed to facilitate the passage of up to 2,850 people and nearly 300 vehicles daily, according to state media reports. This significant infrastructure project follows a defense pact signed in June 2024, enhancing the collaboration between Pyongyang and Moscow amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The bridge is slated to be approximately 1 kilometer long, with construction expected to take about 1.5 years. Russian state media outlet Tass noted that the undertaking underscores the commitment both nations have made to strengthen their ties. The North Korean media outlet KCNA echoed these sentiments, highlighting that this bridge will significantly promote travel, tourism, and trade between the two nations.

In a statement reported by Tass, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin remarked, “This is a big milestone for Russian-Korean relations,” during a meeting with North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song. Pak referred to the bridge as a “historic monument” symbolizing their leaders’ efforts toward further partnership. Since the beginning of 2024, North Korean tourism has started to see an influx of Russian visitors as the traditional Chinese group tours have been halted.

Statistically, 2023 data shows that roughly 97% of North Korea’s foreign trade was conducted with China, while only 1.2% involved Russia. The construction of this bridge could change that dynamic significantly. Currently, the North Korea-China border is crisscrossed by at least 17 operational road and rail connections. An existing railway bridge and air services also connect North Korea and Russia.

This remarkable initiative comes in the wake of North Korea confirming intelligence reports about its military assistance to Russia. In a startling acknowledgment, Pyongyang stated it has sent approximately 15,000 troops to support Russian forces. Intelligence estimates indicate that around 4,700 of those troops have been wounded or killed during their participation in the conflict over the last three years in Ukraine. Such developments further illuminate the deepening military collaboration between the two countries, showcasing how they have fortified their strategic alliance in recent times.

In summary, the construction of a bridge between North Korea and Russia represents a significant development in their bilateral relations. With a capacity for processing thousands of individuals and vehicles a day, it aims to boost cross-border travel and trade, while also marking a new phase in military cooperation. As these two nations navigate their shared goals during a tumultuous geopolitical climate, the implications of this infrastructure project will likely unfold in the coming years.

Original Source: www.the-express.com