29 April 2009
Australia joins Friendship Bridge anniversary celebrations
Australia’s Parliamentary Secretary for International Development Assistance, Bob McMullan, today joined senior Ministers from Laos and Thailand to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the opening of the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River.
Mr McMullan unveiled a plaque at the bridge, which links the towns of Nong Khai in Thailand with Tha Naleng in Laos.
Australia, through the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) provided $42 million for the feasibility studies, design and construction of the bridge between 1991 and 1994.
Australia also funded the border-crossing and immigration facilities on the Lao side.
“This bridge is an enduring symbol of Australia’s deep commitment to assist both Laos and Thailand to develop their economies, and to forge closer and better relations between the two nations,” Mr McMullan said.
“At the time of design and construction it was the centrepiece of Australia’s development cooperation to Laos and Thailand.
“In Laos, it remains one of the most visible and well-known aspects of the Australian aid program to Laos.
“It continues to provide people on both sides of the river with real, tangible benefits 15 years after its opening.”
Former Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating attended the official opening of the bridge on 8 April 1994 along with His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, and the former President of Laos, Nouhak Phoumsavanh.
Media contacts: Ms Raine Dixon
First Secretary
Development Cooperation Section
Australian Embassy
Tel: 353800 Ext. 121