China’s senior party leader Wang Huning emphasized strong ties with North Korea despite global changes, reported Pyongyang’s official media outlet. In a meeting with North Korea’s ruling party delegation, Wang Huning highlighted the need for a new chapter in relations on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year.
The North Korean delegation arrived in Beijing as part of a three-nation tour to strengthen ties with socialist ideology-sharing countries. Led by Kim Song-nam, the delegation also met with Liu Jianchao, the minister of the party’s international liaison department.
2024 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between North Korea and China. The KCNA announced this year as the year of North Korea-China friendship, following a tradition started in 2009. The tour will also include visits to Vietnam and Laos.
Kim Song-nam’s visit coincides with North Korea’s reengagement with ASEAN, as the country plans to participate in the ASEAN Regional Forum hosted by Laos this year. The ARF is the only regional forum where North Korea has representation, signaling a shift towards regional diplomacy for the nation.
ASEAN consists of ten member countries, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam. The tour aims to strengthen ties with ASEAN nations and enhance diplomatic relationships in the region.
Overall, Wang Huning’s meeting with the North Korean delegation underscores China’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with North Korea despite changing global dynamics, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic relations between the two countries on their 75th anniversary.
