The Implications and Effects of the TKR and TSR Linkage Project for Commodity Trade

The Implications and Effects of the TKR and TSR Linkage Project for Commodity Trade

Russia has been expressing a keen interest in pushing for triangular economic cooperation among Russia, South Korea and North Korea. The triangular project gained momentum as inter-Korean relationship made substantial progress in the wake of the summit talks between South and North Korea. If such cooperation projects can be implemented successfully, the countries concerned will not only obtain economic benefits, they will also consolidate political and diplomatic relations, which may contribute to the creation of a solid peace structure in Northeast Asia. The TSR-TKR connection project could lead to significant changes in cargo and commodity flows in Northeast Asia, involving Russia as a natural transportation bridge between Europe and Northeast Asia. The project of railway communication between the ROK and Europe via TSR will bring large financial and economic profits for South and North Korea and Russia. It is expected that the restoration of the TKR system with subsequent linkage with the TSR will build a solid foundation for the future unification of North and South Korea inducing the opening of North Korea's introvert society and serious changes in its socio-economic structures.