VIENTIANE, Dec 30 (NNN-KPL) – The opening of the fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, sparked optimism among people in Laos, who hope it will improve livelihoods and regional connectivity, boost trade, tourism and transportation, and further strengthen the long-standing friendship between Laos and Thailand.
The bridge, linking Bolikhamxay province in Laos, to Thailand’s north-eastern province of Bueng Kan, was officially inaugurated on Dec 25, marking a major milestone in infrastructure development and bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lao Prime Minister, Sonexay Siphandone, said, the project reflects the shared aspirations of the governments and peoples of both countries. He noted that, the bridge serves as a crucial link in the Greater Mekong Subregion, East-West Economic Corridor, improving transportation and logistics efficiency, while facilitating trade and tourism between Laos and Thailand, and beyond.
For many residents, the fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge is expected to strengthen cross-border ties and improve livelihoods. Koung, a 30-year-old resident of Bolikhamxay, said, the bridge has brought new hope for local producers and traders.
Bolikhamxay province, some 200 km south-east of the Lao capital, Vientiane, is home to tourism attractions such as waterfalls, temples and festivals.
Many believe the bridge will boost transportation and tourism in the provinces, as improved access could attract more visitors.
Beyond economic benefits, many residents see the bridge as a symbol of closer connections, hoping it will strengthen people-to-people ties between the two provinces.
The fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge has also attracted widespread attention online, as many Lao people see it as a project expected to bring significant socio-economic benefits in transportation, trade, and tourism.
Spans 1,350 metres across the Mekong River, with 17.4 metres wide, the bridge features two traffic lanes, a central median, and pedestrian walkways on both sides. The overland sections are built with pre-stressed concrete beams, while the central span uses a cable-stayed design.– NNN-KPL