North Korea and Russia Begin Construction of Crucial Road Link

North Korea and Russia have begun constructing their first road link, a move expected to bolster their bilateral relations amid North Korea’s military support for Russia in Ukraine. The bridge will enable the daily passage of approximately 2,850 individuals and nearly 300 vehicles, enhancing cross-border travel and trade. This development follows a defense pact signed in 2024, solidifying a partnership that has seen North Korean troops support Russian forces.

In a significant move towards strengthening bilateral ties, North Korea and Russia have commenced the construction of their first-ever road link. The new crossing will facilitate the daily transit of approximately 2,850 individuals and nearly 300 vehicles at a 10-lane facility. This bridge is seen as a symbol of the growing support from Pyongyang for Moscow, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The partnership between the two nations deepened in June 2024 when they signed a defense pact. In return for military assistance, Russia has been supplying North Korea with essential goods, including medicine and food supplies. Reports indicate that around 12,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to assist Russian forces in Ukraine.

The announcement of the bridge construction comes after a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. They agreed to build a 1-kilometer-long bridge over the Tumen River. According to Russian state media, the project is expected to take approximately 1.5 years to complete, aiming to enhance economic and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

According to North Korean media outlet KCNA, the bridge is intended to boost not only travel for locals but also tourism and trade. This was echoed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, who described the bridge as a significant milestone in relations between Russia and North Korea. His North Korean counterpart, Pak Thae-song, referred to it as a “historic monument” representing their cooperative efforts.

Since February 2024, a limited number of Russian tourists have ventured into North Korea, although for the most part, larger groups from China remain absent. In terms of commerce, about 97% of North Korea’s foreign trade still relies on China, with only around 1.2% involving transactions with Russia. Currently, North Korea and China are linked by approximately 17 active road and rail connections, as revealed by South Korean officials.

Besides the planned bridge, connections already exist via railway and air, fostering some level of interaction between North Korea and Russia. Interestingly, North Korea has now confirmed its military involvement, stating it has sent thousands of troops to support Russia’s efforts in Ukraine, with intelligence reports indicating casualties among them.

This newly launched construction of a road link between North Korea and Russia marks a crucial development in their bilateral relations, particularly against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The bridge, expected to facilitate thousands of crossings daily, represents a significant step forward. North Korea’s military aid to Russia further cements their growing alliance, as both nations navigate their respective geopolitical challenges.

Original Source: www.the-express.com