In a recent development signaling a continued commitment to the relationship, Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed his intent to strengthen ties with North Korea. Despite indications of strained relations and North Korea’s growing engagement with Russia, Xi conveyed his desire to enhance cooperation and strategic communication with Pyongyang.
Xi’s message to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, marking the 76th anniversary of North Korea’s founding, lauded the Workers’ Party of Korea for its role in uniting North Koreans and fostering the country’s growth. The message, reported by the South China Morning Post, also highlighted the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and North Korea, emphasizing how these bonds have “become stronger over time.”
Xi reiterated China’s commitment to maintain and develop “traditional friendly and cooperative relations” with North Korea, and to contribute towards fostering peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the region and globally.
This public declaration comes amidst a backdrop of recent developments that have sparked speculation about North Korea’s evolving foreign policy. Notably, the most recent known interaction between the two leaders was in January during the exchange of New Year’s greetings. Since then, North Korea has been intensifying its diplomatic and military engagement with Russia, including a visit from Russian President Vladimir Putin in June – his first to Pyongyang in 24 years. Two weeks after Putin’s visit, North Korea switched its state television broadcasts from a Chinese satellite to a Russian one, fueling discussions about a potential shift in alliances.
However, Xi’s recent message underscores China’s intention to continue fostering its relationship with North Korea, despite the recent developments. It remains to be seen how this commitment will play out in light of North Korea’s deepening ties with Russia. This situation presents a complex geopolitical landscape with implications for the stability and security of the region.
