Pyongyang: North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported today that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a summit in Pyongyang on Monday, agreeing to expand cooperation in political, economic, and cultural fields to usher in a new chapter in bilateral relations.
According to Thai News Agency, the Chinese leader pledged that Beijing would remain steadfast in its commitment to protecting the shared interests of both countries. China is North Korea's largest trading partner, and analysts predict that the Chinese leader's visit will focus heavily on trade and tourism.
On this occasion, Kim Jong-un reaffirmed to Xi Jinping his full support for the "One China Principle," and this support will remain steadfast regardless of any changes in the international situation. While President Xi, making his first visit to North Korea in seven years, intends to use the opportunity to significantly advance bilateral relations, the two leaders also agreed to deepen strategic communication through reciprocal visits by high-level officials.
In addition, North Korean leader China hosted a reception for the Chinese president and his delegation on Monday evening. The Chinese leader delivered a speech expressing his appreciation for the shared friendship and thanking North Korean officials for the warm welcome. He stated that relations between China and North Korea have reached a new historic beginning on the 65th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance between the two countries.
Regarding today's schedule, while it remains unclear whether there will be further discussions between the two leaders, South Korean media anticipates that the Chinese president is scheduled to visit the China-Korea Friendship Tower in Pyongyang, which was built to commemorate Chinese soldiers who died in the Korean War. Mr. Xi is scheduled to travel back to China by plane this afternoon. A grand farewell ceremony with an honor guard is expected to be held at the airport.