Bolikhamxay: The 5th Laos-Thailand Friendship Bridge, which links Bolikhamxay Province in Laos with Bueng Kan Province in Thailand, is scheduled to open for public service on 25 December 2025, according to reports from provincial authorities.According to Lao News Agency, Mr. Vathana Phandanouvong, Deputy Head of the 5th Laos-Thailand Friendship Mekong River Bridge Construction Project, provided a briefing on the project's progress during a site visit on 15 December 2025. The briefing was given to a delegation from the Lao Front for National Construction of Bolikhamxay Province.Mr. Vathana Phandanouvong stated that construction of the bridge is now fully complete. Preparations are underway to test operational systems in advance of the opening. These systems include vehicle scanners, document submission and registration systems, and other service facilities.The bridge spans a total of 1,350 metres across the Mekong River. It comprises 535 metres on the Lao side and 815 metres on the Thai side. The structu re is 17.4 metres wide and includes two traffic lanes, a central median, and pedestrian walkways on both sides. The overland sections are constructed using pre-stressed concrete beams, while the mid-river section is designed as a cable-stayed structure.Once operational, the bridge is anticipated to significantly enhance cross-border transport, boost trade, and facilitate people-to-people connectivity between the two neighboring countries.