Xi says ready to work with Kim for 'stable' China-North Korea ties: KCNA

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 in their bilateral relationship. This commitment was communicated in a message dated July 1, according to North Korea's state media, KCNA.

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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.

The exchange comes in the wake of Xi's significant state visit to Pyongyang last month. During that trip, both leaders committed to strengthening their ties, a move occurring against a backdrop of increasing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and North Korea's expanding military cooperation with Russia. Xi's message to Kim was a response to a congratulatory letter from the North Korean leader marking the 105th anniversary of the founding of China's Communist Party.

In his message, Xi thanked Kim for the "enthusiastic and friendly" hospitality he received during his visit. He noted that Kim's message reflected the "deep and warm feelings" of the North Korean people and leadership towards China. Xi emphasized the shared history of the Communist Party of China and the Workers' Party of Korea as Marxist ruling parties that have historically supported national independence and advanced the socialist cause together over generations.

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The Communist Party of China and the Workers' Party of Korea are the Marxist ruling parties.

Xi stated his readiness to guide relevant sectors and regions of both countries to fully implement the common understanding reached between them, thereby steering China-DPRK relations toward stable development. Kim had previously described the Pyongyang summit as a "historic occasion" and reaffirmed North Korea's "steadfast stand" to continuously strengthen ties with Beijing. Despite international pressure and North Korea's increased security cooperation with Russia, China remains North Korea's primary economic partner, accounting for approximately 98% of its foreign trade in 2024.

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I thanked Kim for the "enthusiastic and friendly" hospitality during the trip.