China has expressed readiness to deepen cooperation with North Korea as both countries seek to reinforce bilateral relations during a high-level diplomatic visit to North Korea’s capital city, Pyongyang, by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
According to China’s Foreign Ministry, Wang held talks with his North Korean counterpart, Choe Son Hui, on Thursday, emphasising Beijing’s commitment to expanding dialogue, cooperation, and high-level exchanges between the two neighbours.
Wang said China is prepared to work with North Korea to “further improve” relations and maintain the positive momentum in bilateral ties. He also stressed that both sides share a long-standing friendship and should continue strengthening communication to support regional stability and development.
The visit is seen as part of Beijing’s broader efforts to re-engage Pyongyang after years of limited interaction during the COVID-19 pandemic and shifting regional alliances, particularly North Korea’s growing ties with Russia.
Reuters reports that in recent months, diplomatic engagement between the two countries has increased, including resumed transport links and a rise in trade. China’s exports to North Korea reportedly reached their highest level in six years, reflecting improving economic exchanges.
Wang’s trip also comes ahead of anticipated global diplomatic activity involving China and the United States, adding further geopolitical significance to the visit.
Observers note that both Beijing and Pyongyang have intensified efforts to rebuild trust, following a period of reduced contact. Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited Beijing, where he met Chinese President Xi Jinping alongside other international leaders during a major military event.
Since then, both sides have continued to signal renewed engagement, including senior-level visits and the restoration of cross-border transportation services such as train routes between Beijing and Pyongyang.
China has described its relationship with North Korea as historically close and has reiterated its commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability while enhancing mutual development cooperation.
The latest diplomatic engagement underscores ongoing efforts by both countries to stabilise and strengthen ties amid evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region.
