Pyongyang (TDI): Chinese President, Xi Jinping, arrived in North Korea on Sunday for a rare state visit, marking his first trip to the country in nearly seven years.
Xi was welcomed in Pyongyang with a red-carpet reception, a 21-gun salute and a ceremonial greeting by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
The two leaders are expected to hold talks focused on bilateral relations, regional security and economic cooperation during the two-day visit.
The trip is Xi’s first overseas journey of the year and comes at a time when China is seeking to reinforce its influence on the Korean Peninsula.
Beijing has grown increasingly concerned about Pyongyang’s deepening ties with Russia, particularly after North Korea expanded military cooperation with Moscow and strengthened diplomatic engagement with the Kremlin.
In remarks quoted by Chinese and North Korean state media, Xi emphasized the importance of advancing relations between the two countries and described the partnership as entering a “new historical starting point.”
Read More: Xi to Visit North Korea Next Week in First Pyongyang Trip in Seven Years
He also highlighted the need for both nations to oppose what he characterized as hegemonic and militaristic pressures.
North Korea has continued to expand its nuclear and missile programs, while recently unveiling new military projects, including plans for a large destroyer and additional strategic weapons capabilities. Experts estimate the country has significantly increased its nuclear arsenal in recent years.
For Kim, closer engagement with China could provide important economic and diplomatic benefits as North Korea seeks relief from international isolation and economic challenges.
Discussions may include the expansion of cross-border trade, tourism and infrastructure cooperation, according to regional analysts.
China and North Korea share a longstanding alliance dating back to the Korean War, though relations have occasionally been strained by Pyongyang’s nuclear ambitions.
Xi’s last visit to North Korea took place in 2019, making the current trip one of the most significant diplomatic exchanges between the two countries in recent years.
