Published: December 05 2023
Hungary and Slovakia have collaborated to build a new bridge connecting their borders. The bridge, co-financed by the European Union, cost 2.5 billion forints (EUR 6.6m) to construct. This collaboration between the two countries is seen as a success story based on mutual respect and has led to increased border crossing points.
Increased Border Crossing Points
The new bridge brings the total number of border crossing points between Hungary and Slovakia to 39, up from just 22 in 2010. In addition, there are plans to open a 40th border crossing point early next year at Drégelypalánk. Both countries view having legal ways to cross the border as strategically important, especially considering that the Hungary-Slovakia border is the longest and Slovakia is Hungary's third most important trading partner.
Travel Time Reduction
The new bridge has significantly shortened travel time between Vrbovka and Őrhalom. Previously, it would take at least half an hour by car, but now it only takes a few minutes. This improvement in transportation infrastructure will benefit both countries' economies and enhance physical security.
Utilizing European Union Funds
The opening of the new bridge demonstrates the successful utilization of European Union funds by Hungary and Slovakia. The co-financing by the EU highlights the importance of the bridge for the development and integration of the region. Both countries have effectively utilized EU funds to enhance their infrastructure and promote economic growth.
Strengthened Cooperation and Mutual Support
After a period of political tension between Hungary and Slovakia, cooperation between the two countries has become a success story based on mutual respect. They now support each other in key matters and contribute to each other's economic growth and physical security. This collaboration serves as an example of how countries can set aside past differences and work together for the benefit of their citizens.
Questions & Answers
What is the purpose of the new bridge connecting Hungary and Slovakia? The purpose of the new bridge is to provide a legal border crossing point between Hungary and Slovakia and facilitate easier travel between the two countries.
How many border crossing points did Hungary and Slovakia have in 2010? In 2010, Hungary and Slovakia had 22 border crossing points.
How many border crossing points do Hungary and Slovakia have now? Currently, Hungary and Slovakia have a total of 39 border crossing points.
Will there be any additional border crossing points in the near future? Yes, there will be an additional border crossing point opening early next year at Drégelypalánk.
What is the significance of the Hungary-Slovakia border for Hungary? The Hungary-Slovakia border is the longest border section for Hungary and Slovakia is its third most important trading partner.
Who co-financed the construction of the new bridge? The construction of the new bridge was co-financed by the European Union.
How much did it cost to build the new bridge? The new bridge cost 2.5 billion forints (EUR 6.6m) to build.
How much will the travel time be reduced with the opening of the new bridge? With the opening of the new bridge, the travel time by car between Vrbovka and Őrhalom will be shortened from at least half an hour to a few minutes.
What does the opening of the new bridge demonstrate about Hungary and Slovakia? The opening of the new bridge demonstrates the excellent utilization of European Union funds by Hungary and Slovakia and symbolizes the success of their cooperation based on mutual respect.
What is the current state of cooperation between Hungary and Slovakia? After a period of "political hatred," cooperation between Hungary and Slovakia is now deemed as a success story based on mutual respect. The two countries support each other in key matters and contribute to each other's economic growth and physical security.
