Xi Jinping hosts North Korean premier for treaty anniversary

The visit underscores a significant warming in relations between Beijing and Pyongyang that has accelerated since late 2025, characterized by the restoration of direct flights and passenger rail services. Signed in 1961, the friendship treaty remains China’s sole active mutual defense pact, serving as a cornerstone for current diplomatic engagement across political and economic spheres.

Pak, 70, assumed his role as premier in December 2024 after a career spanning propaganda, industrial policy, and party discipline. A core member of Kim Jong Un’s inner circle, he has maintained a close working relationship with the leader since 2011. His presence in Beijing marks a rare international outing for the premier, who previously traveled to China and Russia during brief periods of diplomatic activity in 2018 and 2019.