Pyongyang: Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Pyongyang, North Korea, to begin a two-day official visit. This marks his first visit to North Korea in seven years and his first overseas trip this year. He was greeted at the airport by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his wife, before a grand welcoming ceremony was held at Kim Il-sung Square in the heart of Pyongyang. The square was adorned with large portraits of the two leaders, and major streets in the capital were decorated with Chinese and North Korean flags. Large groups of students and citizens lined the streets waving flags and chanting slogans celebrating the strong friendship between the two nations.
According to Thai News Agency, Xi Jinping stated that relations between China and North Korea are entering a new historical starting point, urging cooperation in promoting multilateralism and opposing dominance. This reflects efforts to build a strong alliance to counter the power of the United States and regional allies, particularly the intensified military cooperation between the U.S., Japan, and South Korea.
The two leaders are scheduled to meet today, with discussions expected to focus on cooperation in food security, energy, and technology, amidst continued UN sanctions against North Korea. China is prepared to assist and support in various areas, primarily to stabilize the regime in Pyongyang. Many observers believe China may seek some assurances from North Korea regarding the control of nuclear weapons testing to prevent the regional situation from spiraling out of control and impacting China's economic development plans. Meanwhile, North Korea seeks recognition from China on the international diplomatic stage.
This visit comes at a time when North Korea is aggressively strengthening its economic and military ties with Russia, amid escalating regional tensions. China seeks to demonstrate its continued allegiance and significant influence over North Korea. However, just one day before Xi Jinping's visit, North Korea sent a strong signal through a statement from Kim Yo-jong, Kim Jong-un's powerful sister, reiterating that North Korea's nuclear status is irreversible.