Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding co-operation during talks in Pyongyang, underscoring the enduring strategic partnership between the two neighbouring states despite a shifting international landscape.
During a meeting in the North Korean capital, Kim Jong Un pledged to further deepen ties with China, describing the relationship as a strategic priority for both the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea and the government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim said Pyongyang would continue to regard friendship with China as “the foremost strategic task” and would work to develop bilateral relations into a model of cooperation between socialist states, characterised by enduring trust and strong strategic alignment.
The North Korean leader also praised what he described as the “vigorous expansion of exchanges and co-operation” across a broad range of sectors between the two countries.
Kim reiterated Pyongyang’s support for Beijing’s position on issues related to China’s core interests, including its adherence to the One China principle.
“Regardless of changes in the international situation, our party and government will continue to fully support the policies and positions of the Chinese party and government aimed at safeguarding China’s fundamental interests,” he said.
China’s state news agency Xinhua reported that Xi, in turn, reaffirmed Beijing’s longstanding support for North Korea and called for closer coordination between the two countries.
During the talks, the Chinese president stressed the need to strengthen the foundations of political mutual trust and raise the level of practical co-operation.
Xi is currently in Pyongyang on a state visit, his first trip to North Korea in seven years.
The visit comes as the two countries mark the 65th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, Co-operation and Mutual Assistance, a cornerstone of relations between Beijing and Pyongyang since its signing in 1961. Xi’s previous visit to North Korea took place in 2019.
