North Korea says it is committed to protecting China’s interests

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has concluded a significant diplomatic visit to Beijing, reinforcing his nation’s strategic alliances with both China and Russia amidst a shifting global landscape.

In a high-level meeting on Thursday, Kim assured Chinese President Xi Jinping of Pyongyang’s steadfast support in protecting China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and development interests.

According to North Korean state media KCNA, the meeting was characterized by affirmations of unbreakable friendship.

“No matter how the international situation changes, the feeling of friendship cannot change,” Kim reportedly told Xi.

The Chinese President reciprocated, describing the two nations as “good neighbors, good friends and good comrades” who share a common destiny.

The leaders agreed to bolster strategic cooperation and communication, signaling a deepening of political and diplomatic ties.

The visit, which KCNA hailed as a “historic occasion,” underscores the “invariability and invincibility” of the relationship between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and China.

Kim departed Beijing on Thursday, seen off by senior Chinese officials, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi, marking the successful conclusion of his diplomatic mission.

This reinforcement of ties with Beijing comes as North Korea also cements its partnership with Moscow.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message to Kim for North Korea’s foundation day, praising the “heroic involvement” of North Korean forces in past conflicts as a “distinct symbol of friendship.”

Putin expressed confidence in the continued consolidation of their “comprehensive strategic partnership.”

The strengthened bond with Russia is not merely rhetorical. North Korea has actively supported Moscow’s war in Ukraine by supplying soldiers, artillery ammunition, and missiles.

During a meeting earlier in the week, Kim pledged to “fully support” the Russian army, framing the assistance as a “fraternal duty.”

This convergence of interests showcases a growing alignment between Pyongyang, Beijing, and Moscow, presenting a coordinated front against perceived Western pressures and solidifying a powerful bloc in the region.

North Korea, Russia, and China have always had a strong alliance among themselves, whereas South Korea is known to support the US and its partners. The recent SCO summit and Beijing military parade have solidified the North Korean partnership with China even more.