Xi Arrives in North Korea, Pledges Stronger Ties With Pyongyang

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Pyongyang: Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in North Korea on Monday for his first overseas trip of the year, receiving a ceremonial welcome as he sought to reinforce ties between the longtime allies.

Banners celebrating the countries' friendship were displayed at the airport, where Chinese and North Korean flags lined the arrival area. During the visit, Xi described relations between Beijing and Pyongyang as an ' invincible friendship' and pledged closer cooperation.

The trip comes shortly after Xi hosted separate summits in Beijing with US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. It also takes place amid continued deadlock in talks between North Korea and the United States over Pyongyang's nuclear programme.

In an article published by North Korea's ruling party newspaper, Xi said the traditional friendship between the two countries would remain strong regardless of changes in the international situation.

The visit follows Xi's meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in September, when Kim attended events in Beijing marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

North Korea reaffirmed its position on nuclear weapons ahead of Xi's arrival, with Kim's sister stating that the country's nuclear programme remains non-negotiable.

Analysts said the visit reflects China's desire to maintain close ties with North Korea at a time of shifting regional dynamics. Some observers believe Beijing is focused on ensuring stability on the Korean Peninsula while also preserving its influence as relations between Pyongyang and Moscow continue to deepen.

Pic Credit : AFP