(KPL) Mr. Phosay Khaykhamphithoune, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Litta Khatthiya, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport, and Ms. Morakot Sriswasdi, Thai Ambassador to Laos, visited the construction site of the 5th Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge over the Mekong River, linking Borikhamxay in Laos with Bueng Kan in Thailand, to inspect the project's progress.

The delegation was joined by Mr. Khaven Panyanouvong, Deputy Governor of Borikhamxay, along with representatives from relevant authorities.

On this occasion, Mr. Laythong Phommavong, Manager of the Construction Project, reported that the construction of basic infrastructure, such as access roads, checkpoint buildings, and other facilities, has been completed 100%, with the final inspection conducted in March 2024. Meanwhile, construction of the bridge's main structure over the Mekong river is 94.76% complete. On average, the overall progress of the Lao side’s construction responsibilities stands at 96.64%. However, the project has been delayed beyond the initial 2024 schedule due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the visit, Mr. Phosay Khaykhamphithoune praised all involved parties for their dedication and tireless efforts in advancing the project.

He urged the project management team and relevant stakeholders to continue their work on the remaining construction, particularly the bridge's main span, to ensure completion according to the plan. This will enable the final joining of the bridge’s central section in March and its official opening in May 2025.

Additionally, efforts will focus on establishing necessary regulations and frameworks to facilitate operations once the bridge is operational. These initiatives are part of the preparations to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Lao-Thai diplomatic relations and align with Laos' national policy of transforming the country from a landlocked to a land-linked nation.

KPL