Xi Jinping meets Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang during rare North Korea visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang on Monday as he began a rare state visit to North Korea, his first in nearly seven years. The visit is being closely watched amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in East Asia and growing concerns over regional security.

Xi was welcomed with a formal state ceremony in the North Korean capital, underscoring the strategic importance both countries attach to their longstanding relationship. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional stability, economic ties, and broader international developments.

The visit comes at a time when North Korea has strengthened its ties with Russia, prompting analysts to view Beijing’s outreach as an effort to reinforce its influence in Pyongyang and maintain its position as North Korea’s most important strategic partner.

Ahead of the visit, Xi described China-North Korea relations as being at a “new historical starting point” and stressed the importance of deeper cooperation between the two neighbouring nations. Observers believe the summit could shape future diplomatic and security developments on the Korean Peninsula.

The two-day visit also coincides with the 65th anniversary of the China-North Korea Friendship and Mutual Assistance Treaty, highlighting the enduring political and strategic partnership between the two countries.