During a visit to Russia this week, Chinese chancellor Wang Yi highlighted the dynamism of practical cooperation between the two countries, citing Russian agricultural products at Chinese tables and Chinese cars circulating through the Russian streets. This integration is especially visible in Heihe, a city in Heilongjiang province, which has become a pulsating center of exchanges with neighboring Blagoveshchensk in the Amur region.
Separated by just 700 meters from the Heilongjiang River, the cities are connected by seasonal river routes and, since 2022, by a transionic road bridge that guarantees operations throughout the year. Built with temperatures resistant steel up to -60 ° C, the bridge symbolizes friendship between countries, according to Russian authorities.
With about 850,000 tickets recorded in 2024 – up 127% over the previous year – Heihe also benefits from the resumption of group excursions with mutual visa exemption since last September. In addition to shopping and medical tourism, the Russians have occupied local classrooms, while the belt and route initiative strengthens the infrastructure and regional ties.
The bridge, aerobarcos and the growing movement in markets and universities reinforce Heihe’s role as a strategic and human link between China and Russia.
Source: https://www.chinahoje.net/cidade-chinesa-na-fronteira-com-a-russia-se-destaca-como-simbolo-da-crescente-conexao-bilateral/
