Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with North Korea, calling bilateral cooperation a key component of China’s foreign policy.
In remarks published Monday by North Korea’s state-run newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, Xi stated that Beijing and Pyongyang will expand cooperation across various sectors.
He emphasized that both nations will work together to uphold regional stability and foster a more balanced international order.
“We must oppose hegemony, authoritarianism and all attempts and conspiracies to revive militarism that endanger regional security and stability.”
Xi also highlighted the importance of promoting multilateral cooperation and a more inclusive global economy.
He noted that China is prepared to work closely with North Korea to advance a fairer international system and achieve shared development goals.
The comments were released just before Xi’s arrival in North Korea for a two-day state visit, marking his first trip to the country in seven years. During the visit, Xi is scheduled to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for high-level discussions focusing on bilateral relations and regional issues.
Analysts view the diplomatic visit as part of Beijing’s broader effort to reinforce ties with Pyongyang amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region.
Relations between the two neighboring countries have gained renewed momentum recently. Last year, Xi hosted Kim and several foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a major military parade in Beijing.
Since that event, North Korea has gradually increased cross-border activity with China and resumed exchanges that were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, signaling a steady thaw in bilateral engagement.