Beijing: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in talks in Beijing, as reported by Chinese state media outlets on Thursday. This meeting marks the first bilateral discussion between the two leaders in over six years.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the discussions took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Earlier statements from China's foreign ministry spokesman, Guo Jiakun, confirmed that the summit aimed to discuss bilateral relations and delve into issues of mutual interest. Guo emphasized China's desire to enhance strategic communication and deepen governance experiences with North Korea through robust exchanges and cooperation.

The focal point of the meeting is anticipated to be bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic matters, as North Korea faces significant economic challenges. China stands as North Korea's largest economic ally, underscoring the importance of this dialogue. The meeting also serves as an effort to mend relations that had been strained by North Korea's recent alignment with Russia.

This summit is notable as it is the leaders' first encounter since their last meeting in June 2019 in Pyongyang. Kim Jong-un's visit to Beijing marks his fifth trip to China, with his previous visit occurring in January 2019. Kim arrived in Beijing aboard his private armored train, accompanied by his daughter, Ju-ae, to partake in the parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Kim's presence alongside Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin during the military parade at Tiananmen Square on Wednesday demonstrated the growing trilateral solidarity. Following the parade, Kim also attended a reception hosted by President Xi and participated in a summit with President Putin, further highlighting the strengthening ties among the three nations.