CaliToday (23/9/2025): North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged to "more vigorously" advance and strengthen his country's relationship with China, state news agency KCNA reported on Tuesday, signaling a renewed focus on its traditional and most vital ally.
Kim's comments were made in a reply to a congratulatory message sent by Chinese President Xi Jinping on the anniversary of North Korea's founding day, KCNA said. The exchange underscores the deep-rooted, though often complex, ties between the two neighboring socialist states.
In his message, Kim also expressed his satisfaction with China's support during his high-profile visit to Beijing earlier this month, where he stood alongside President Xi to observe a major military parade. "I feel good enough about it," Kim was quoted as saying, a typically understated but positive assessment in the context of North Korean official statements.
The visit to Beijing was a significant diplomatic event. It marked the first time in six years that the two leaders had held a formal bilateral meeting, and Xi's invitation for Kim to stand with him at the World War II anniversary event was a powerful display of solidarity. This public appearance was seen by analysts as a reaffirmation of Beijing's steadfast support for Pyongyang.
China remains North Korea's most important benefactor and its primary economic lifeline. The relationship provides a crucial buffer for the isolated state against international sanctions, which have been imposed over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.
This renewed public emphasis on strengthening ties with Beijing comes at a noteworthy time. It follows recent reports and analyses suggesting a degree of strain in North Korea's relationship with its other major partner, Russia, over what Pyongyang allegedly perceives as unbalanced reciprocation for its military support in the war against Ukraine.
By publicly committing to a more vigorous relationship with China, Kim Jong Un appears to be reinforcing the primacy of the Pyongyang-Beijing axis. This move not only solidifies his country's economic and diplomatic backing but also sends a clear message about North Korea's strategic priorities in a complex and shifting geopolitical landscape.
