Published: December 04 2023
A new bridge has been opened, linking the border villages of Őrhalom and Vrbovka (Ipolyvarbó), between Hungary and Slovakia. This bridge has been co-financed by the European Union and is aimed at boosting border crossings and cooperation between the two countries.
Improved Border Crossings
Hungary and Slovakia previously had 22 border crossing points, but with the new bridge, they now have a total of 39. There are plans to open a 40th border crossing early next year at Drégelypalánk. Having more border crossing points is strategically important for both countries, especially since Hungary shares its longest border section with Slovakia, which is its third most important trading partner.
Cost and Travel Time
The bridge over the River Ipoly cost HUF 2.5 billion (EUR 6.6 million) to build. Its opening is expected to greatly shorten travel time between Vrbovka and Őrhalom, reducing it from at least half an hour to just a few minutes by car.
Utilisation of European Union Funds
The opening of this bridge showcases the efficient use of European Union funds by Hungary and Slovakia. The two countries have successfully cooperated and supported each other in key matters, contributing to economic growth and physical security.
Improved Relations and Cooperation
Cooperation between Hungary and Slovakia has evolved from a period of "political hatred" to a success story based on mutual respect. Both countries now have a strong partnership and actively contribute to each other's development and security.
Questions & Answers
What is the new bridge that opened between Hungary and Slovakia? The new bridge is a bridge over the River Ipoly linking the border villages of Őrhalom and Vrbovka (Ipolyvarbó).
How much did the new bridge cost to build? The bridge was co-financed by the European Union and cost HUF 2.5 billion (EUR 6.6 million) to build.
How many border crossing points are there between Hungary and Slovakia? In 2010, Hungary and Slovakia had 22 border crossing points. Now, they have 39, and the 40th border crossing will be opened early next year at Drégelypalánk.
Why is having ways to cross the border legally important for Hungary and Slovakia? Both Hungary and Slovakia attach strategic importance to having ways to cross the border legally. This is especially true given that Hungary's longest border section is the one it shares with Slovakia, its third most important trading partner.
What is the travel time between Vrbovka and Őrhalom with the new bridge? The new bridge will shorten the travel time by car between Vrbovka and Őrhalom from at least half an hour to a few minutes.
What does the opening of the bridge demonstrate about the two countries? The opening of the bridge demonstrates the two countries' "excellent utilization" of European Union funds. It also represents a success story based on mutual respect, as cooperation between Hungary and Slovakia has improved after a time of "political hatred" between the two countries.
Which governments signed the agreement for the construction of the bridges on the Ipoly? In 2014, it was the governments of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Slovakia's Robert Fico that signed the agreement on the construction of the bridges on the Ipoly.
