Asia10 April, 20261 min read
China And North Korea Agree To Deepen Cooperation During Wang Yi's Pyongyang Visit
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China and North Korea pledge to deepen bilateral cooperation and exchanges in Pyongyang talks. Wang Yi and Choe Son Hui held in-depth discussions on international and regional issues.
Historic Visit
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made his first visit to North Korea in seven years. The two sides agreed to further deepen cooperation and exchanges between their countries. Wang noted that 2026 marks the 65th anniversary of the China-North Korea Treaty of Friendship.
Choe described bilateral relations as deep-rooted, based on the common socialist system and traditional friendship. The visit came ahead of President Trump's planned trip to Beijing.
Strategic Communication
Both countries agreed to strengthen strategic communication between their foreign policy institutions. Wang said exchanges over the past year had been full of highlights.
Choe reaffirmed Pyongyang's commitment to advancing relations based on shared socialist principles. The renewed engagement comes amid a series of recent high-level exchanges signaling a rebound in relations.
Context of Shifting Alliances
The relationship has been described as being as close as lips and teeth. Their ties have been questioned in recent years as North Korea deepened military cooperation with Russia. China is reportedly reluctant to form an anti-West alliance with North Korea and Russia.
Last September, Kim Jong Un and Xi held their first summit in more than six years. Last month, North Korea and China resumed their direct flight and passenger train services.
Unanswered Questions
Neither China nor North Korea disclosed whether they discussed the United States or the war in the Middle East. Wang's trip came before President Trump's visit to Beijing.
Trump has repeatedly expressed readiness to resume dialogue with Kim Jong Un. The Xi-Kim meeting in September 2025 marked an improvement in bilateral relations.
