In a significant diplomatic move, North Korea’s Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui is set to visit China from 27 to 30 September 2024, following an invitation from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. This marks Choe’s second trip to the nation in less than a month, amid growing ties and cooperation.
A Stronger Alliance
The visit comes on the heels of a recent summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping. During this meeting, Kim expressed his commitment to enhance relations with China, asserting that he could ‘feel well enough’ the support from Beijing.
Past Engagements
- Kim attended a military parade alongside Xi, marking a visual display of the enduring ties between the two nations.
- The leaders also met during a World War Two anniversary event, holding their first bilateral dialogue in six years.
A Focus on Diplomacy
Kim’s statements underscore North Korea’s intention to fortify its relationship with its major ally, particularly as tensions remain with the United States. He noted that there is no reason to shy away from talks with Washington—should the US ease its demands for denuclearisation.
As regional dynamics shift, the China-North Korea alliance appears to be on a trajectory of growing cooperation, potentially impacting future dialogues involving the US and South Korea.