Russia and North Korea have opened their first road bridge linking the two countries, marking another step in their closer economic and political ties.
The bridge spans the Tumen River and was officially opened during a ceremony Monday with officials on both sides. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin took part in the event via video link.
The Russian government predicts the new crossing will be able to accommodate up to 300 vehicles a day. It is designed to facilitate the increase of traffic of passengers and goods between the two countries.
The opening of the road route will help bolster the link between North Korea and Russia, Mishustin said.
Video released by the Russian government revealed that trucks from both countries took advantage of the bridge and people gathered along the way to watch the opening ceremony.
The bridge is the first direct road link over the border between Russia and North Korea, which already have rail and air ties.
The project is coming as Moscow and Pyongyang have been deeply redoubling ties since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Their cooperation has been growing to incorporate military and economic relationships.
The report said that North Korea deployed thousands of troops to Russia in 2024 to aid its troops in the fighting in the Kursk region. Ukraine also has blamed Russia for its attacks on Ukrainian targets using North Korean missiles.
A defence treaty was signed between the two countries in 2024, with a clause that the two would defend each other in the event of an attack on either country.
Economic and tourism ties have also increased, but North Korea has strict restrictions on travel to and from the country.
The bridge’s opening will provide a new transportation link for Russia and North Korea, as their partnership grows in significance for both countries.
Source: AFP
