(CPV) Monday 6 June 2016 – A New Zealand-Vietnam friendship bridge will be constructed on Dien Bien Phu street in Ho Chi Minh city, connecting Hutech University and the Hong Bang International University.

The information was announced on June 6th, between New Zealand Minister for Economic Development, Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment and Science and Innovation, Steven Joyce and Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh city People’s Committee Le Thanh Liem.

The bridge is a joint project between New Zealand Trade and Enterprise and a coalition of New Zealand timber, and the Ho Chi Minh city People’s Committee. It will be made from Glulam, a product made of New Zealand radiate pine wood that is known for its strength, durability and versatility, it is lighter and stronger than steel. 

Discussions to construct the friendship bridge began in 2015 during the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and Vietnam when a coalition of New Zealand timber companies – Sequal Lumber, Timbalink, PTL Structural Timber Consultants, Vietnam-New Zealand Ltd and Tran Duc Homes – raised the idea of sponsoring an enduring symbol of friendship between the two countries to mark the anniversary.

The first flight from Auckland landed at Ho Chi Minh city on June 5th, 2016.

According to New Zealand Consul General to Ho Chi Minh city Tony Martin, the idea to construct a bridge – something that connects two places together – is a great symbol of the strong ties between New Zealand and Vietnam.

The construction is a strong metaphor for the rapidly growing Vietnam – New Zealand bilateral relationship as well as a great advertisement for the use of timber in construction./.

Forestry makes an important contribution to New Zealand’s economy as the third largest earner, making up to 3.2% of GDP. New Zealand government research institute provides technical and scientific capability in forestry, wood products and bio – product research, and development with a high – value manufacturing focus.

The nation is best known for using wood and plant fibres, which includes wood modification, wood processing, fibre sciences, pulp and paper testing, bio-refinery technology, and clean technologies.