Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un emphasized the importance of enhancing traditional relations with China during his recent meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, as reported by state media. This meeting, held on Friday, concluded Wang's two-day visit to Pyongyang, marking his first visit to North Korea since 2019.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the meeting occurred months after Kim's summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The talks focused on deepening bilateral ties, which have faced challenges due to North Korea's military and diplomatic alignment with Russia. Kim reaffirmed North Korea's commitment to prioritizing the development of DPRK-China relations, with socialism as the core foundation.

Kim highlighted the necessity of increasing visits and contacts at various levels and enhancing mutual support and cooperation to protect shared interests and promote sustained development of bilateral relations. This comes in light of the current international geopolitical situation and the long-term strategic interests of both countries.

While specific details were not provided, it appears Kim referred to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, which began in late February. In response, Wang expressed China's readiness to develop friendly relations with North Korea, viewing the bilateral ties as entering a new phase following last year's summit between Xi and Kim.

Kim also pledged North Korea's full support for China's policies, particularly the "one-China" principle and the aim of building a multipolar world, indirectly referencing China's territorial claim to Taiwan. China's foreign ministry noted that Kim reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing high-level exchanges and strategic communication during his meeting with Wang. He also expressed full support for Xi's vision of a shared future and China's territorial claims to Taiwan.

Wang's meeting with Kim followed his one-on-one discussion with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui. His visit to Pyongyang precedes U.S. President Donald Trump's planned trip to China in mid-May for talks with Xi. There is speculation that Trump may seek a meeting with Kim during his visit to China, as he has shown interest in reengaging with the North Korean leader.