By South Matters World Desk | World Affairs
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Pyongyang on Monday for a state visit to North Korea, marking a significant moment in relations between the two neighboring countries.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and First Lady Ri Sol Ju welcomed Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, at the airport with full state honors.
Grand Welcome in Pyongyang
North Korea organized a large welcome ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square. The two leaders stood together on the review platform as a 21-gun salute honored the visiting Chinese delegation.
Military bands played the national anthems of both countries before Xi inspected an honor guard of the Korean People’s Army alongside Kim.
The ceremony also featured a military parade and cultural celebrations attended by thousands of residents.
Streets Filled With Supporters
Crowds lined major roads across Pyongyang to welcome the Chinese leader. Children, students, and workers waved flags, flowers, and balloons as Xi’s motorcade traveled through the city.
The visit received extensive coverage in North Korean state media, highlighting the importance of ties between Beijing and Pyongyang.
Focus on Bilateral Relations
Before arriving in North Korea, Xi published a signed article in Rodong Sinmun, the ruling party newspaper.
In the article, Xi said he looked forward to meeting Kim to discuss the traditional friendship between the two nations and exchange views on the future development of bilateral relations.
Analysts expect the leaders to discuss economic cooperation, regional security, and strategic coordination amid growing geopolitical tensions in East Asia.
China-North Korea Partnership Under Spotlight
The visit comes at a time when North Korea is strengthening ties with both China and Russia.
Recent meetings between Xi and Vladimir Putin have fueled discussions about closer cooperation among Beijing, Moscow, and Pyongyang.
Observers believe Xi’s visit signals China’s continued commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic and strategic relations with North Korea.