North Korean official urges strengthening relationship with China

A senior North Korean official have emphasized further strengthening ties with China, marking the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. Kim Song-nam, director of the international department at the Workers’ Party, discussed this during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Saturday, as reported by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). This move is seen as an effort to enhance cooperation between the two nations under the strategic leadership of their leaders.

Kim’s visit to Beijing is part of his three-nation trip that will also include Vietnam and Laos. The visit is significant as it comes at a time when North Korea is looking to resume diplomatic engagements with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This follows years of border shutdowns due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Laos, as this year’s chair country for ASEAN, plans to host the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and other ASEAN-related meetings, providing a platform for North Korea to engage in regional diplomacy.

In addition to his meeting with Wang Yi, Kim also met with Wang Huning, a member of the standing committee of the political bureau of the Chinese Communist Party, and Liu Jianchao, the minister of the party’s international liaison department. These interactions highlight the efforts to strengthen ties between North Korea and China, as both nations aim to guard their common interests through enhanced communication and cooperation.

The relationship between North Korea and China is of strategic importance, with China being North Korea’s longtime ally and largest economic benefactor. Both nations are committed to advancing their friendly ties, especially in the year that marks a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations. The discussions between Kim and Chinese officials underscore the shared commitment to deepening cooperation and collaboration for mutual benefit.

As North Korea seeks to expand its diplomatic engagements in the region, the meetings in Beijing signal a renewed focus on multilateral cooperation and engagement. This move towards strengthening ties with China and other ASEAN member countries reflects North Korea’s efforts to actively participate in regional forums and contribute to promoting peace and stability in the region.