Xi and Kim strengthen China-North Korea ties

No matter how the international situation changes, the firm stance of the Chinese [Communist] Party and government in highly valuing the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK will not change.

The unwavering support for the socialist cause of the DPRK led by Kim Jong-un will not change; and the determination to safeguard the common interests and favourable strategic environment of both China and the DPRK will not change.

Seoul: Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged deeper cooperation during a closely watched summit on Monday, as Xi made a rare visit to Pyongyang in a move seen as an effort to reinforce Beijing's influence over its socialist neighbour.

Xi’s visit, his first to North Korea in seven years, began with a lavish welcome at Pyongyang International Airport, where he and wife Peng Liyuan were received by Kim and wife Ri Sol Ju.

Xi later attended a ceremonial reception at Pyongyang’s main square, where a military honour guard and thousands of residents, including children carrying balloons, lined the streets. Buildings around the square were adorned with the two countries’ flags, giant portraits of Xi and Kim, and banners celebrating bilateral friendship.

During summit talks, Xi expressed China’s willingness to expand cooperation in trade, agriculture, construction and technology. He also called for stronger strategic coordination and the protection of both countries' sovereignty and security interests.

Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said North Korea was producing enough nuclear material each year for 10-20 bombs and was nearing completion of intercontinental ballistic missile technology. 

He said the international community should prioritise persuading Pyong­yang to freeze its nuclear materials production and ICBM programme as an immediate goal.  —AP