New Bridge Links Hungary and Slovakia
Hungary has inaugurated a new bridge that will strengthen access and cooperation with nearby Slovakia. The Saint Barbara Bridge, a key part of the national strategy program to enhance border crossings, was built at a cost of HUF 2.9 billion (nearly EUR 8 million) and spans the Ipoly River. The completion of this project is seen as a landmark achievement in promoting collaboration with neighboring countries.
Péter Szijjártó, the Hungarian Foreign Minister, emphasized the commitment to developing as many border crossing points with Slovakia as possible. The construction of the Saint Barbara Bridge is the latest effort to fulfill this goal. It is the 40th crossing point on the Hungary-Slovakia border, a significant increase from the 22 crossings in 2010. The opening of 18 new crossings in the past fourteen years reflects the shared dedication of both countries to improving connectivity and relations.
The history of this bridge harks back to the 15th century when János Hunyadi, an iconic Hungarian figure, ordered the construction of a previous bridge over the Ipoly River. The bridge, linking Drégelypalánk in Hungary and Ipolyhídvég in Slovakia, was later destroyed during World War II. The completion of the Saint Barbara Bridge will significantly reduce travel time as people will no longer need to take a 20-kilometer detour to reach the border.
Despite the current obstacle of river flooding preventing access to the bridge by road, the hope is that once the water recedes, the bridge will serve as a vital link between Hungary and Slovakia. The successful construction of the Saint Barbara Bridge also sets the stage for potential future projects, including new bridges, roads, and railways between the two countries.
The upcoming visit of the Slovak Prime Minister to Budapest presents an opportunity for further discussions on enhancing bilateral relations. As Hungary looks forward to fostering stronger ties and collaborations, the opening of the Saint Barbara Bridge stands as a testament to the mutual efforts of both nations in promoting connectivity and cooperation.
