Beijing: Meeting on Friday with North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song, China's President Xi Jinping emphasized that 'friendship, a shared destiny, and mutual assistance' have consistently been the 'distinctive features' of Beijing's relationship with Pyongyang. Pak is in Beijing for a three-day official visit as the neighboring countries celebrate the 65th anniversary of a mutual treaty that features a defense provision.

According to Anadolu Agency, Xi Jinping highlighted the complex and volatile nature of the current international situation, urging China and North Korea to maintain strategic focus and bolster strategic confidence. Pak is leading a delegation from the ruling Workers' Party of Korea and the government, with events scheduled for Saturday to commemorate the China-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance, originally signed on July 11, 1961.

During the meeting, Xi also referenced his recent meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, advocating for both countries to 'steadily advance pragmatic cooperation.' He stressed the importance of leveraging shared revolutionary memories and resources to ensure that future generations in both nations remember the historical achievements of the Chinese People's Volunteers and continue the enduring China-North Korea friendship.

Xi further stated the need for Beijing and Pyongyang to 'strengthen strategic coordination,' with a focus on safeguarding their respective sovereignty, security, and developmental interests. He emphasized creating a favorable external environment for both countries to pursue a socialist path aligned with their unique national conditions. Notably, China remains North Korea's primary trading partner, even as the latter faces significant international sanctions due to its nuclear program.