Beijing:Seoul: A senior North Korean ruling party official has engaged in a series of high-level meetings in Beijing, as reported by the North's state media. This marks the latest efforts to enhance diplomatic relations between North Korea and China.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Song-nam, a member of the Political Bureau and Central Committee secretary of North Korea's Workers' Party, met with Liu Haixing, head of the Communist Party of China's Central Committee's International Liaison Department, at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse on Friday. This meeting was Kim's third encounter with senior Chinese officials since his arrival on Tuesday, highlighting the ongoing commitment to deepen ties between the two nations.
During the meeting, Kim Song-nam briefed Liu Haixing on North Korea's recent achievements in party-building efforts and emphasized the nation's dedication to fulfilling the objectives of the five-year plan established at the party's ninth congress in February. In response, Liu acknowledged the significance of Kim's visit in enhancing bilateral relations.
The discussions culminated in an affirmation of mutual support for each country's policies and a pledge to strengthen cooperation. Following the meeting, a reception was hosted by China for the North Korean delegation.
In another engagement, Kim also met with Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau and director of its General Office. During their discussions, Kim reiterated North Korea's commitment to closer ties with China. Cai highlighted the importance of President Xi Jinping's June visit to Pyongyang, stating that it had given new significance to the relationship between the two countries, and affirmed China's unwavering commitment to friendship with North Korea.
Kim's visit to Beijing commenced with a meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday. The North Korean delegation's visit comes as both countries seek to enhance cooperation following a period of cooling relations, amid North Korea's increasing alignment with Russia during the Ukraine conflict.