(KPL) – The 5th Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, spanning the Mekong River between Borikhamxay Province in Laos and Bung Kan Province in Thailand, is set to be completed and officially opened in May 2025.

According to Mr. Laithong Phommavong, Chief of the Project, as of now, over 94% of the construction has been completed. The Lao side has achieved 96.64% of its overall construction responsibilities. Infrastructure components such as access roads, checkpoint buildings, and related facilities have been completed in full, with final inspections conducted in March 2024. Meanwhile, 94.76% of the middle section of the bridge has been constructed.

The project, initially scheduled for completion in 2024, faced delays due to the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. The construction of the bridge's central section is expected to be completed in March 2025, followed by an official opening ceremony in May 2025.

The 5th Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge is a centerpiece in the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of Lao-Thai diplomatic relations. It aligns with the Lao PDR’s policy of transforming the country from landlocked to a transportation hub. The bridge symbolizes the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Laos and Thailand and supports their strategic partnership for sustainable growth and development.

Authorities anticipate that the bridge will strengthen border trade between Laos and Thailand while enhancing Thailand’s role as a regional trade hub.

The bridge will connect with National Road 13 South in Borikhamxay Province and Highway 222 in Bung Kan Province, forming a vital regional route. It will facilitate trade and transportation between Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam while fostering connectivity with other Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries, including Cambodia, Myanmar, and China.

The project’s completion is expected to enhance economic integration and promote sustainable development across the region.

KPL