North Korea, China first mention military cooperation in 7th summit talks; denuclearization remains sidelined

Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded his seven-year visit to North Korea and returned to Beijing, with both leaders agreeing to enhance military and economic cooperation and strategically elevate their bilateral relationship. The summit, held on June 8, saw Kim Jong Un and Xi Jinping commit to expanding exchanges and cooperation across various sectors. Notably, neither the Chinese foreign ministry nor North Korean media mentioned denuclearization during the summit, suggesting North Korea successfully avoided public discussion of the issue.

North Korea had strongly signaled that denuclearization was not on the agenda, with Kim Yo Jong, vice department director of the Workers' Party of Korea, dismissing U.S. State Department claims about denuclearization agreements as "false propaganda." Kim Jong Un also showcased his commitment to nuclear armament by inspecting a new nuclear material production facility, emphasizing that "thoroughly exercising the status of a nuclear-weapon state is an immutable political and military stance we must maintain."

“

Thoroughly exercising the status of a nuclear-weapon state is an immutable political and military stance we must maintain.

The inclusion of military cooperation in the leader-level talks, the first since their initial summit in March 2018, is a significant development. Analysts suggest this aligns with the interests of both nations. China may seek to manage North Korea's growing closeness with Russia, particularly concerning potential military technology transfers and nuclear advancements. North Korea, in turn, benefits from strengthened ties with its key ally.

While the summit promises expanded economic cooperation, including the full reopening of border crossings and resumption of air and rail services, the specifics of future military collaboration remain uncertain. Experts believe this cooperation is unlikely to evolve into a trilateral alliance with Russia and that China will avoid overtly antagonizing South Korea. The leaders also exchanged information and opinions on regional affairs, including the situation in Northeast Asia involving the U.S., with Xi Jinping asserting China's leading role in regional diplomacy.

“

China is trying to manage the situation regarding denuclearization without worsening it, while promoting economic cooperation and opening up, and pushing sensitive issues under the surface.