New China-North Korea bridge to open on Oct 15

{"#North Korea's Border Control":"The new bridge will replace the decades-old Sino-Korean Friendship Bridge, which has limited capacity. Analysts suggest the new bridge could facilitate more trade and economic exchanges between China and North Korea. The opening of the new bridge is part of a broader trend of improved relations between China and North Korea, following North Korea's first road bridge with Russia. The new bridge will be used for vehicle traffic, not passenger trains, which have been used by the Sino-Korean Friendship Bridge. Analysts also note that North Korea's trade with Russia largely involves military supplies, while exchanges with China could potentially involve civilian goods.","#North Korea's Tourism":"North Korea has not yet resumed issuing tourism visas to Chinese citizens, who once made up the bulk of its overseas visitors. The new bridge could potentially increase tourism between the two countries, though it remains to be seen if this will happen.","#China's Economic Influence":"China is North Korea's largest trading partner and a vital source of diplomatic, economic, and political support for the reclusive nuclear state. Its exports to North Korea have increased to a six-year high of US$2.3 billion, though still below pre-sanctions levels."}