Chinese President Xi Jinping has said his latest visit to North Korea has deepened mutual understanding between the two countries, marking what officials described as a new phase in bilateral relations.
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Xi wrapped up his first trip to Pyongyang in seven years on Tuesday, concluding a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that focused on strengthening cooperation across political, economic and cultural sectors. According to China’s official Xinhua news agency and North Korea’s KCNA, both sides agreed to expand exchanges and reinforce strategic communication.
During remarks at a farewell luncheon, Xi said that mutual understanding between China and North Korea had become “deeper and more comprehensive,” adding that the direction of future relations had become clearer and more defined. He described the visit as laying the groundwork for a more structured and predictable partnership.
Kim Jong Un and Xi also highlighted the importance of their countries’ longstanding relationship, with Pyongyang describing the summit as the opening of a “new chapter” in ties. The two leaders participated in symbolic gestures, including planting a fir tree at a political training institution, which was presented as a sign of “ever-renewing friendship.”
Kim reportedly expressed full support for the “One China principle,” reaffirming Beijing’s position on Taiwan. In response, Xi stressed China’s commitment to safeguarding shared interests and maintaining close coordination on regional and international issues.
North Korean state media emphasised equality in the relationship, portraying the summit as a partnership between sovereign equals rather than a dependency-based alliance. Analysts, however, noted differences in emphasis between Chinese and North Korean narratives, with Beijing focusing on practical cooperation and Pyongyang highlighting political symbolism and solidarity.
Despite the public displays of unity, neither side provided details on discussions regarding North Korea’s nuclear programme or its relations with the United States. Observers suggest the absence of such topics indicates Beijing’s preference to frame the visit around bilateral development rather than security negotiations.
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The visit is being viewed as an effort to reinforce traditional ties at a time of shifting regional dynamics and ongoing geopolitical tensions.