During a meeting in Pyongyang, North Korea, a top Chinese official Zhao Leji reaffirmed ties with the country’s leader Kim Jong Un. This high-level meeting between the allies comes at a time when North Korea has been conducting missile tests to intimidate South Korea and the United States. Zhao, who ranks third in the ruling Communist Party hierarchy and heads the ceremonial parliament, expressed China’s commitment to further developing ties with North Korea, its most important source of economic aid and diplomatic support. The meeting did not touch upon the political situation in the region, focusing instead on enhancing mutual cooperation and exchange between the two countries. This visit by Zhao marks the first bilateral exchange involving a Chinese Politburo Standing Committee member since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The relationship between China and North Korea dates back 75 years, with both countries being described as “good neighbors” who have worked together towards shared goals and development. China played a significant role in the Korean War, supporting North Korea against the U.S. and other forces. In recent years, China has helped prop up North Korea’s weak economy, potentially violating U.N. sanctions imposed in response to Pyongyang’s nuclear weapons program. The meeting between Zhao and Kim highlighted the historical ties between the two nations and emphasized the importance of further cooperation in various areas. Despite international scrutiny, China remains a crucial ally for North Korea, providing economic aid and diplomatic backing.
North Korea has reemerged on the global stage with recent missile launches and nuclear activities, leading to tensions with the U.S. and South Korea. In response to these challenges, North Korea has sought to strengthen its cooperation with China and Russia. Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia for a summit with President Vladimir Putin in 2019 was seen as a strategic move to bolster ties with Moscow and enhance support against international pressure. The current standoff with the U.S. and South Korea has prompted North Korea to seek support from its allies, including China. The upcoming exchanges between China and North Korea are expected to focus on celebrating the anniversary of their diplomatic ties and further enhancing their relationship.
The COVID-19 pandemic had disrupted international travel and diplomatic engagements, leading to a closure of borders and restrictions on movement. Zhao Leji’s visit to North Korea marked a significant milestone in bilateral exchanges, given the challenges posed by the pandemic. Prior to the outbreak, Kim Jong Un and Chinese President Xi Jinping had held summits in 2019, highlighting the close ties between the two countries. With the gradual easing of travel restrictions, China and North Korea are poised to strengthen their relationship through increased exchanges and cooperation in various fields. The recent meeting between Zhao and Kim underscores the importance of sustained communication and collaboration between the two allies.
As North Korea faces mounting pressure from the international community over its nuclear activities, cooperation with key allies like China and Russia becomes crucial for its survival. China has refrained from criticizing Russia’s actions in Ukraine, instead accusing the U.S. and NATO of provoking Moscow. While China has not provided direct military support to Russia, it remains committed to enhancing its strategic ties with both Russia and North Korea. The upcoming exchanges between China and North Korea are expected to lay the groundwork for closer cooperation in the face of growing challenges in the region. The meeting between Zhao Leji and Kim Jong Un signifies a renewed commitment to strengthening ties and pursuing common goals in the face of global uncertainties.
