Beijing/Pyongyang: On Sunday, the leaders of China and North Korea reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced bilateral cooperation, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, as reported by state news agency KCNA.
“I attach great importance to the development of the China-DPRK relations and have jointly led and promoted the in-depth development of the China-DPRK relations while maintaining close communications with you, Comrade General Secretary, through several meetings and personal letters and messages in recent years,” stated China’s President Xi Jinping in his message to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The acronym DPRK stands for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, North Korea’s official designation.
Xi emphasized China’s readiness to “write a new chapter” in their relationship through strengthened communications and collaboration. As North Korea’s largest trading partner, China has played a pivotal role in its economy and maintains a historical connection, dating back to its support during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953.
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However, this year has seen a cautious response from China as Kim has deepened ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin. North Korea and Russia recently signed a strategic treaty that includes mutual defense elements.
In his message to Xi, Kim pledged to “steadily strive to consolidate and develop the friendly and cooperative relations between the DPRK and China as required by the new era.”
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Meanwhile, Kim oversaw a live artillery firing by graduates of the O Jin U Artillery Academy, marking their transition to commanding officers within the core segment of the country’s armed forces, according to KCNA. This facility is vital for training the backbone of North Korea’s artillery force.
On Friday, Kim asserted that North Korea would not hesitate to deploy all available offensive forces, including nuclear weapons, should any adversary attempt to encroach upon its sovereignty.
