Sinuiju:North Korea has announced the opening of a new cross-border bridge connecting its border city of Sinuiju with China's city of Dandong, emphasizing the bridge's potential to enhance economic ties between the two nations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the North Korea-China Amnok River Bridge took place the previous day, with high-ranking officials from both countries in attendance. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) described the bridge as a symbol of the enduring DPRK-China friendship, asserting that it would facilitate increased bilateral economic relations.
North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song and Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered congratulatory speeches via video link during the ceremony. Ri Ryong-nam, North Korea's ambassador to China, and Wang Yajun, China's ambassador to North Korea, were present at the event. Pak highlighted the bridge's role in strengthening ties between the two peoples and invigorating mutually beneficial economic cooperation. Meanwhile, Li reiterated China's commitment to prioritizing its relationship with North Korea, regardless of changes in the international landscape.
The bridge, which spans 3,026 meters, was completed in 2014 with a Chinese investment of approximately US$310 million. However, its opening was delayed due to North Korea's incomplete construction of connecting roads and customs facilities. This development follows a summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where they agreed to elevate bilateral relations and expand exchanges. The new bridge is expected to improve trade and ease congestion on the existing Friendship Bridge, the primary crossing since 1943.