Xi says ready to work with Kim for 'long-term, sound and stable' China-North Korea ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping has conveyed his willingness to collaborate with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to foster "long-term, sound and stable" development of bilateral relations. This initiative aims to deepen the traditional partnership between Beijing and Pyongyang amidst escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula and North Korea's expanding military cooperation with Russia.

Xi's message, detailed in a letter to Kim dated July 1, was a response to a congratulatory note from the North Korean leader marking the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. Xi acknowledged the "deep and warm feelings" expressed by Kim, the Workers' Party, and the North Korean people towards China. He highlighted the historical solidarity between the two nations in their struggles for national independence and socialist advancement.

"I am ready to guide the relevant sectors and regions of both sides to the full implementation of the important common understanding achieved among us and lead the China-DPRK relations to a long-term, sound and stable development," Xi stated. He also thanked Kim for the "enthusiastic and friendly" hospitality during his recent state visit to Pyongyang. This exchange reinforces the commitments made during Xi's June visit, where both leaders pledged to enhance bilateral ties amid rising regional security concerns.

Kim Jong Un had previously described the summit as a "historic occasion" that deepened mutual trust and reaffirmed their "unshakable will" to strengthen traditional friendship. North Korea maintains a "steadfast stand" on developing ties with Beijing and plans to further expand friendly and cooperative relations. This diplomatic engagement occurs as North Korea significantly increases its security cooperation with Russia, supplying troops and munitions for Moscow's war in Ukraine. Despite this, China remains North Korea's most crucial economic partner, accounting for nearly 98% of its foreign trade in 2024.

“

I am ready to guide the relevant sectors and regions of both sides to the full implementation of the important common understanding achieved among us and lead the China-DPRK relations to a long-term, sound and stable development.