Xi Jinping Calls for Strengthened Strategic Resolve with North Korea

The meeting coincided with the 65th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, China’s only active mutual defense pact. Xi urged both nations to protect their sovereignty and security interests while modernizing their diplomatic relationship to reflect changing geopolitical realities. This visit marks a significant step in Beijing’s efforts to re-engage with Pyongyang following years of isolation caused by the pandemic.

Relations have shown signs of a thaw since late 2025, evidenced by the resumption of direct flights and passenger train services between the two capitals. However, experts note that Pyongyang’s deepening military and economic ties with Moscow present a complex backdrop for these talks. Pak Thae Song, a long-time member of Kim Jong Un’s inner circle who assumed the premiership in late 2024, arrives in Beijing tasked with operationalizing the consensus reached during Xi’s visit to Pyongyang last month. His presence underscores a renewed diplomatic push to ensure the bilateral relationship remains relevant as North Korea balances its reliance on Chinese economic support against its strategic alignment with Russia.