Xi’s key visit to Pyongyang
Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation at a meeting in Pyongyang on Monday. This is Xi’s first visit to North Korea in seven years.
The day began with a lavish welcome at the international airport. Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, were greeted by Kim and Ri Sol Ju, who smiled and applauded. Later, a ceremony in the main square included an honor guard, thousands of people with balloons and flags of both countries, along with giant portraits of the leaders.
Commitments and agreements
During the meeting, Xi expressed China’s willingness to expand cooperation in trade, agriculture, construction and infrastructure, according to state television CCTV. The Chinese leader stressed the need to strengthen strategic cooperation and mutually defend sovereignty and security interests.
Kim noted that the visit “clearly demonstrates how unbreakable” the bilateral relationship is. The Korean Central News Agency indicated that both leaders reached a broad agreement to strengthen strategic coordination. Kim also reiterated Pyongyang’s support for the “one China” principle.
Geopolitical context
The visit occurs at a time when both countries seek to rebuild their traditional alliance in the face of tensions with the United States. China has been North Korea’s main economic and diplomatic backer. However, in recent years, Pyongyang has prioritized cooperation with Russia, sending soldiers and weapons to the war in Ukraine in exchange for economic and military assistance.
Experts believe that Xi is trying to reestablish his exclusive influence over North Korea to gain advantage in his dealings with Donald Trump. “Implementing UN Security Council resolutions does not appear to be a priority for China,” said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha Womans University.
Bilateral trade volume recovered to pre-pandemic levels last year. In addition, direct flights and passenger trains resumed. Xi urged to take advantage of this reopening to expand exchanges.
The nuclear issue
Kim wants Xi to accept North Korea as a nuclear state. China avoids speaking openly about denuclearization, although it maintains it as a long-term objective. Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, called the American pressure an “anachronistic dream.”
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung stated that North Korea produces enough material for between 10 and 20 bombs. Kim has focused on modernizing his nuclear arsenal since the failure of negotiations with Trump in 2019.
Analysts predict that Xi will offer aid packages, such as rice, fertilizers and the resumption of Chinese tourism. “North Korea cannot depend on Russia alone. It needs to align with China,” summarized Kwak Gil Sup, director of One Korea Center.
