Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday expressed his desire to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to discuss the longstanding friendship between their countries and exchange views on the future development of bilateral relations.
Xi made the statement in a signed article published in Rodong Sinmun, North Korea’s official newspaper, ahead of his two-day state visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), his first visit to the country in seven years.
He described China and the DPRK as friendly socialist neighbours bound by mutual support and a shared future, stressing that their traditional friendship has remained strong despite changes in the global landscape.
According to Xi, the enduring relationship between the two nations continues to demonstrate resilience and vitality. He highlighted top-level strategic guidance as the cornerstone of China-DPRK ties, noting that he and Kim have met six times in recent years to maintain close communication and chart the course of bilateral cooperation.
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Xi further emphasised that a common socialist vision and shared destiny form the foundation of relations between the two countries. He said high-level strategic coordination has given the partnership renewed relevance in contemporary times.
The Chinese leader added that both nations are committed to promoting regional peace and stability, as well as safeguarding world peace. He noted that China and the DPRK firmly support each other in protecting their sovereignty, security, and development interests while working together to uphold international fairness, justice, and the post-war international order.
Xinhua
