Russia’s Tass news agency reported Wednesday that the bridge would be 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) long and its construction is expected to take 1 ½ years,

The two countries have vowed to expand bilateral relations after North Korea sent troops and weapons in support of Russia’s war against Ukraine.

North Korea and Russia are cementing their alliance with the construction of their first-ever road bridge, marking a significant step in expanding bilateral ties. The bridge, spanning a border river, is expected to bolster trade and tourism between the two nations, according to state media reports.