The construction of a new bridge linking Greece and Turkey, known as the “Friendship Bridge,” is set to commence, marking a significant step in enhancing the bilateral relations and connectivity between these neighboring countries. Spanning the Maritsa (Meriç) River, the project will create a vital highway border crossing between the Ipsala border gate in Turkey and the Kipi border gate in Greece, strengthening infrastructure and boosting trade in the region.
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The initiative is part of broader efforts to foster cooperation between the two nations, which have historically faced political tensions. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the bridge was initially signed in Athens in 2004, followed by a decision in 2006 assigning Greece the responsibility for project development. The project’s design phase is nearly complete, and construction is expected to begin soon after the tendering process is finalized.
The 841-meter-long bridge is designed as an “extradosed” structure with four lanes to accommodate growing traffic demands. It replaces an older bridge built in 1958, which no longer meets modern transportation needs. This new infrastructure will not only streamline transportation but also serve as a key connection on the Thessaloniki-Sofia-Berlin route, linking Turkey to the Pan-European Corridor and the Balkan countries via the Egnatia Motorway.
Project scope
The bridge symbolizes a renewed period of collaboration between Greece and Turkey, both NATO members, amid their ongoing reconciliation efforts. It aims to enhance trade, ease border crossings, and reinforce the strategic ties between the two countries, contributing to regional development and integration.
This ambitious project demonstrates the potential for infrastructure to act as a bridge—both literally and figuratively—towards closer regional cooperation and economic prosperity.