Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening ties with North Korea, describing the relationship as an “unwavering policy” ahead of his visit to Pyongyang.

In comments published by North Korea’s ruling newspaper, Xi said China and North Korea would work together to oppose “hegemony, authoritarianism and attempts to revive militarism” that threaten regional peace and stability.

Xi added that both countries would expand exchanges across multiple sectors and deepen strategic cooperation.

China-North Korea Relations

The Chinese leader said Beijing and Pyongyang would continue strengthening political, economic and people-to-people ties while promoting what he described as a fairer international order.

He also pledged to work with North Korea to advance multilateral cooperation and economic globalisation that benefits developing countries.

The remarks come as China seeks to reinforce its influence over North Korea amid shifting regional dynamics and growing competition with the United States and its allies in Asia.

Xi Heads To Pyongyang

Xi is expected to arrive in North Korea for a two-day visit, his first trip to the country in seven years.

During the visit, he is expected to hold talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on bilateral relations, regional security and economic cooperation.

The visit follows a gradual revival of exchanges between the two countries after years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year, Kim attended a major military parade in Beijing hosted by Xi, highlighting the continued importance of ties between the two neighbours.

Strategic Significance

The visit comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in East Asia, with China, North Korea and Russia drawing closer as they face increasing pressure from the United States and its allies.

Analysts see the trip as a signal that Beijing intends to maintain close coordination with Pyongyang on regional and international issues.

(with inputs from Reuters)