Myanmar and Thailand have opened their second friendship bridge, connecting Myawaddy in Kayin State with Thailand’s Mae Sot. It is aimed at boosting trade and tourism between the two countries, according to an article in the Myanmar Times. The opening ceremony on March 19, was attended by Myanmar’s State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha. “This is a symbol of cooperation for our mutual interest, and the bridge will benefit the people in both countries,” said Aung San Suu Kyi. Construction of the bridge began in 2015, and it cost about US$132 million, the report said. The tourism industry would likely see a particular benefit from the bridge opening. It would provide tourists more options for traveling overland between the two countries.
