VIENTIANE, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The opening of the fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge has 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 northeastern 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.
The improved connectivity is expected to support economic growth, attract investment and encourage closer people-to-people exchanges on both sides of the border. Beyond its economic and logistical significance, the bridge also stands as a symbol of the long-standing friendship, close neighborly relations and strategic partnership for sustainable development between the two nations.
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.
"With the bridge, I believe trade between the two provinces will become much easier and increase significantly. If trade grows, money will circulate more in our communities, leading to better living conditions and more opportunities for young people to stay and work here," Koung told Xinhua on Monday.
Bolikhamxay province, some 200 km southeast 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. Sisouk, a 34-year-old local resident, said the bridge could bring more international tourists to Laos, particularly to Bolikhamxay.
"With direct road access, more Thai and international visitors may come to explore our province, its natural sites and activities. That would bring real income to residents," he said.
He added that tourism growth could also help preserve local traditions, allowing communities to share their culture, food and way of life with 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.
Local resident Souvanh said that Laos and Thailand share a long history and cultural bonds. This bridge makes it easier to visit each other and understand one another better.
When people meet more often, cooperation becomes natural. This could lead to joint activities in key areas such as education, healthcare and cultural exchange, she said.
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 meters across the Mekong River with 17.4 meters 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. ■
