Pyongyang - On Saturday, Zhao Leji, China's top legislator, met with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to discuss strengthening bilateral relations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, this meeting is part of a broader effort to enhance cooperation as the two nations celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties. Zhao, a high-ranking official of the Chinese Communist Party, is the first senior Chinese leader to visit North Korea since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
During his visit, Kim emphasized North Korea's commitment to expanding its relationships, particularly with China, by initiating various diplomatic and possibly military collaborations with countries like Russia. Observers speculate that Kim's renewed focus on international alliances could lead to a summit in China later this year. Zhao's trip also included participation in the China-DPRK Friendship Year opening ceremony, signaling a potential full recovery of Sino-North Korean relations.