Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed Beijing’s intention to strengthen ties with North Korea in a reply to leader Kim Jong-un, describing the neighboring countries’ relationship as one built on mutual support and shared strategic interests.
Xi sent the response Tuesday after Kim’s Oct. 1 message marking the 77th anniversary of China’s founding. Kim pledged to develop the countries’ traditional friendship and protect their shared interests, while citing this year’s 65th anniversary of their friendship treaty and calling for bilateral relations to reach a new strategic level.
Xi said China and North Korea’s shared border, common destiny and support across generations have defined their relationship. He also referred to his June state visit to Pyongyang, saying the two leaders reached important understandings on deepening ties and strengthening strategic guidance for their development.
China was prepared to preserve the traditional friendship, strengthen political trust, expand practical cooperation and maintain close communication and coordination with Pyongyang, Xi said. He linked those efforts to the welfare of both peoples and to peace and development in the region and the wider world.
The exchange follows a period of strain as North Korea strengthened relations with Russia. Beijing and Pyongyang have since increased high-level engagement: Xi made his first visit to North Korea in seven years in June, and the leaders discussed broader cooperation including trade, agriculture, construction and technology.
That rapprochement has also produced a physical link. The crossing is expected to expand trade and travel and reduce pressure on the older Friendship Bridge, while officials described its opening as an early implementation of the June summit’s commitments.