China’s prime minister is scheduled to visit North Korea this week, as confirmed by Beijing on Tuesday, marking a significant diplomatic interaction with the reclusive nuclear-powered nation. Despite occasional strains in their relationship due to North Korea’s nuclear activities, China and North Korea have maintained a strong bond in recent times.
Premier Li Qiang is set to lead a delegation from the Chinese government to North Korea for an official goodwill trip from October 9 to 11, announced a spokesperson from the foreign ministry. Li, the second-highest-ranking official in China after President Xi Jinping, will participate in the 80th-anniversary festivities of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party, the statement added.
Reports from South Korea’s Yonhap news agency suggest that North Korea is gearing up for a grand military parade to mark the anniversary of the party. In a recent meeting in Beijing, China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, urged his North Korean counterpart to enhance their partnership further.
Not long ago, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare visit to Beijing, appearing alongside Xi at a parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. China remains a crucial ally for North Korea in terms of diplomatic, economic, and political backing.
North Korea justifies its possession of nuclear weapons by claiming threats from Washington and its allies, including South Korea.