Xi and Kim Vow Deeper Ties in Beijing After 80th WWII Anniversary Parade

Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have pledged enhanced cooperation and mutual support during high-level talks in Beijing, state media from both nations confirmed. The significant meeting, which concluded with Kim’s departure by private train on Thursday evening, follows a rare appearance by the North Korean leader at a Chinese military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

During their discussions at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, President Xi underscored the enduring “traditional friendship” between China and North Korea, asserting that this bond would remain steadfast regardless of evolving international circumstances. North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that the leaders also focused on increasing high-level exchanges, strengthening strategic cooperation, and safeguarding shared interests on the global and regional stages.

Kim’s visit marks his first trip to China in six years and occurred shortly after he attended the WWII anniversary parade alongside other foreign dignitaries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. Notably, Kim was accompanied by his young daughter, fueling speculation about her potential role in future North Korean leadership.

The renewed commitment comes as North Korea continues to face stringent U.S. sanctions over its nuclear weapons program and has recently forged closer ties with Russia, providing military support for its conflict in Ukraine. Experts suggest Kim’s diplomatic outreach to Beijing could be aimed at securing leverage in potential future talks with the United States, while also preparing for a post-Ukraine war geopolitical landscape. The joint presence of Kim, Xi, and Putin at the parade has prompted discussions about a possible coordinated front against U.S. pressure, although Putin publicly dismissed such interpretations.

Despite the historical alliance, questions have lingered regarding the exact strength of the China-North Korea relationship, particularly given Pyongyang’s recent pivot towards Moscow. However, this high-profile meeting signals a deliberate effort by both nations to consolidate their strategic alignment amidst complex global dynamics.

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