(LEAD) N. Korea, China open new cross-border bridge 12 yrs after completion

What happened: North Korea and China officially opened a new cross-border bridge over the Amnok, or Yalu, River connecting Sinuiju and Dandong, 12 years after construction ended. Key numbers: Construction ran from October 2011 to October 2014. Why it matters: Chinese Premier Li Qiang said the bridge would facilitate economic and trade cooperation and that bilateral ties have entered a new phase. A South Korean unification ministry official called it the first tangible implementation of the June summit agreements. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

North Korea and China officially opened a new cross-border bridge over the Amnok, or Yalu, River connecting Sinuiju and Dandong, 12 years after construction ended.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang said the bridge would facilitate economic and trade cooperation and that bilateral ties have entered a new phase. A South Korean unification ministry official called it the first tangible implementation of the June summit agreements.