New bridge connects Hungary and Slovakia over the Danube
Hungary and Slovakia open new bridge across River Ipoly
Hungary and Slovakia celebrated the opening of a new bridge over the River Ipoly on Friday, connecting the border villages of Őrhalom and Vrbovka (Ipolyvarbó).
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, who mentioned that the construction of the bridge was co-financed by the European Union and cost 2.5 billion forints (EUR 6.6m).
Szijjártó also highlighted the increased number of border crossing points between Hungary and Slovakia, from 22 in 2010 to 39 currently, with plans to open a 40th crossing at Drégelypalánk early next year.
He emphasized the strategic importance of facilitating legal border crossings between the two countries, particularly due to their significant trading partnership and the length of their shared border.
The opening of the new bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Vrbovka and Őrhalom, from at least half an hour to just a few minutes.
Szijjártó also spoke of the positive cooperation between Hungary and Slovakia, following a period of political tension, and highlighted their mutual support in key matters and contributions to each other’s economic growth and security.
The event symbolizes a successful joint effort by the two countries in utilizing European Union funds and marks a significant milestone in their bilateral relationship.
