Laos and Cambodia are to build a bridge crossing the Xelamphao River, connecting Champasack, Laos with Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith met with his Cambodian counterpart, Prak Sokhonn, yesterday, confirming the location of the bridge.
According to the Khmer Times, both countries had initially agreed upon a location, however Laos then requested a review in order to find a more suitable location.
The new location for the bridge was decided upon late last month after a Lao and Cambodian joint working team undertook a field survey.
The bridge, which crosses the Xelamphao River (named the Ropov River in Cambodia) will link Mounlapamok District, Champasack, with Thapeuay sub-district, Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia. The river currently serves as a border demarcation.
According to a spokesperson of the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the bridge is to improve connections between the country, boosting trade and tourism for both nations.
Both countries are to cooperate in building the bridge, however the cost of construction is yet to be confirmed.
Mr. Sokhonn and Mr. Kommasith also discussed cross-border drug trafficking. Mr. Sounry said Mr. Sokhonn urged cooperation between both countries against drugs and that Mr. Kommasith agreed fully.
A new border crossing was opened between Laos and Cambodia last month, leading to the two countries agreeing to further promote trade and tourism.
