North Korea and Russia Build New Bridge to Strengthen Bilateral Relations
North Korea and Russia have initiated the construction of their first road link, a bridge over the Tumen River, to enhance bilateral relations. Set to process 2,850 people and nearly 300 vehicles daily, the project is part of a broader defense partnership established in June 2024. This collaboration sees North Korea sending troops to support Russian military actions in Ukraine amid shifts in tourism and trade dynamics.
In a significant development for bilateral relations, North Korea and Russia are constructing their inaugural road link, aiming to fortify ties amid North Korea’s ongoing support for Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. The bridge, spanning the Tumen River, is expected to facilitate the crossing of 2,850 individuals and nearly 300 vehicles daily. This ambitious infrastructure project marks a new chapter in collaboration between the two countries.
This strategic partnership has roots in a defense agreement signed in June 2024, which has led to increased exchanges of supplies, including medicine and food from Russia and military support from North Korea. Reports indicate that North Korea has dispatched approximately 12,000 troops to support Russian operations in Ukraine over the last three years.
President Vladimir Putin and leader Kim Jong-un confirmed the construction of the 1-kilometer bridge last June. Together, they aim to reinforce their alliance as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. According to Russian state media, the construction is projected to span 1.5 years, significantly enhancing cross-border travel and commerce.
Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin described the bridge as a pivotal moment in Russian-Korean relations, referring to it as a ‘big milestone’ in their growing partnership. His North Korean counterpart, Pak Thae-song, hailed the project as a “historic monument” that reflects the commitment of both leaders to strengthen their ties.
Meanwhile, North Korea has seen a shift in its tourism landscape, with Russian tourists beginning to visit the country since February 2024, while Chinese tourism, essential for North Korea’s economy, lingers in a halt. Currently, about 97% of North Korea’s external trade relies on China, with a mere 1.2% involving Russia. This construction initiative reflects an intention to diversify trading partners and increase interactions with Russia.
Despite the backdrop of growing relations with Russia, a complexity lingers as North Korea’s military support for Russia continues. Seoul’s intelligence has indicated that around 15,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed to assist Russian troops, with casualty estimates rising to about 4,700. This collaboration underscores the intertwined fates of both nations amid their ongoing geopolitical struggles.
The construction of the new bridge across the Tumen River symbolically and practically enhances the ties between North Korea and Russia. As the two nations deepen their alliance, they navigate challenges around international relations, military support in Ukraine, and shifts in trade partnerships. This 1.5-year project marks not only a milestone in infrastructure but signifies a significant geopolitical alignment that bears watching in the coming years.
Original Source: www.the-express.com
