What Did North Korea's Kim Discuss with China's Xi in Beijing?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- First bilateral meeting between Kim and Xi in over six years.
- Focus on economic cooperation and strategic communication.
- Strengthening ties amid geopolitical changes.
- Kim's fifth visit to China, showcasing continued diplomatic engagement.
- Potential implications for international relations.
Beijing/Seoul, Sep 4 (NationPress) The leader of North Korea, Kim Jong-un, engaged in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, as reported by Chinese state media on Thursday. This meeting signifies their first bilateral dialogue in over six years.
The talks commenced at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, according to various Chinese media outlets.
Earlier, Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for China's foreign ministry, stated that Kim and Xi would convene to deliberate on bilateral relations and share insights on topics of mutual concern.
He emphasized, “China aims to enhance strategic dialogue with North Korea and enrich governance experiences through close cooperation.” Additionally, he expressed a desire to strengthen the traditional relationship with Pyongyang, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The leaders are likely to concentrate on bilateral collaboration, especially in the economic sector, which remains North Korea's most pressing challenge. Notably, China serves as North Korea's primary economic supporter.
This meeting occurs as both nations strive to mend their historically close relationship, which has been strained due to North Korea's recent ties with Moscow.
This marks the first encounter between the two leaders since their last summit in Pyongyang back in June 2019.
Kim has been in Beijing for three days, having arrived on his private armored train with his daughter and successor, Ju-ae, to participate in the celebrations commemorating the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II.
This visit is Kim's fifth to China, following his last trip in January 2019.
During his visit, Kim was seen alongside Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin at a large military parade held at Tiananmen Square on Wednesday, indicating a strengthening of trilateral relations.
Immediately after the military event, Kim joined Xi and Putin at a reception hosted by Xi, where they also held a summit.