In China and North Korea's highest-level meeting in about five years, top Chinese and North Korean official held talks on how to boost bilateral ties, North Korea’s state media KCNA reported Friday.
Overview
On Thursday, Zhao Leji, the chairman of China’s National People’s Congress and a prominent figure in the ruling Communist Party, arrived in North Korea, marking the first bilateral exchange involving such a high-ranking Chinese official since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chinese authorities previously announced that Leji would be staying in North Korea until Saturday.
During his visit, Zhao held discussions with his North Korean counterpart, Choe Ryong Hae, covering topics aimed at enhancing exchanges and cooperation across various domains, including politics, economy, and culture. KCNA reported that the two officials also exchanged perspectives on regional and international matters of mutual interest.
#China's top legislator, Zhao Leji, met with Choe Ryong Hae, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (#DPRK) in #Pyongyang on Thursday.#NorthKorea pic.twitter.com/poSTtPPJg3
— Ifeng News (@IFENG__official) April 12, 2024
DPRK-China Friendship
Choe highlighted the significance of the Chinese delegation’s visit to North Korea, especially in commemorating the “year of the DPRK-China friendship” declared by their leaders at the start of this year. DPRK is short for the North’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
He remarked that this visit marks the beginning of a fresh phase in the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties, highlighting the lasting bond of their friendship forged through mutual endeavors for independence and socialism. He expressed optimism that interactions in politics, economy, and culture would further strengthen.
Zhao emphasised the enduring nature of the China-DPRK friendship and expressed wishes for continued success in North Korea’s state-building endeavours.
He reiterated China’s commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation for the benefit of both nations and regional peace and prosperity.