Xi says China’s commitment to North Korea friendship will not change, KCNA reports

Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed Beijing's steadfast commitment to its traditional friendship with North Korea, asserting that this bond will remain unchanged irrespective of evolving international dynamics. The sentiment was conveyed through letters exchanged with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, as reported by North Korean state media KCNA.

Kim, in his correspondence, declared that the friendship and cooperation between the two nations have ascended to a "new strategic level." This exchange follows Xi's visit to Pyongyang last month, his first in seven years, during which he and Kim committed to broadening collaboration across political, economic, and cultural spheres.

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Regardless of how the international situation changes, the Chinese Communist Party and the Chinese government will continue to attach great importance to the traditional friendship between China and North Korea, continue to firmly support North Korea's socialist cause under the leadership of General Secretary Kim Jong Un, and remain firmly committed to safeguarding the common interests of both countries and a favorable strategic environment.

The enduring alliance is underscored by the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, signed in 1961, which remains China's sole active mutual defense pact. Xi's statement emphasized the Chinese Communist Party and government's continued prioritization of this relationship, their firm support for North Korea's socialist endeavors under Kim Jong Un's leadership, and their dedication to safeguarding the shared interests and a favorable strategic environment for both countries.

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bilateral friendship and cooperation had risen to a "new strategic level."