A new bridge connecting China and North Korea is set to open on Thursday, twelve years after construction began. Chinese state media, CCTV, announced the opening, highlighting the increased economic relationship between the two nations. The new crossing is named the New Yalu River vehicle bridge. This infrastructure project signifies a deepening of ties between China and North Korea, despite international scrutiny surrounding the latter. The bridge is expected to facilitate trade and transportation between the two countries. Its completion underscores China’s continued investment in its relationship with its neighbor. The opening comes as North Korea remains largely isolated on the global stage.