Chinese President Xi Jinping said on July 1, 2026, that he is ready to work with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to guide bilateral relations toward long-term, sound, and stable development [1, 2, 3]. Xi made the remarks in a message responding to Kim's congratulatory note on the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party.
Xi thanked Kim for the "enthusiastic and friendly" hospitality he received during his recent state visit to Pyongyang in June 2026—his first in seven years [1, 2, 3]. In the message, Xi emphasized the shared Marxist ruling party identity between the Communist Party of China and the Workers' Party of Korea.
Kim Jong Un described the June summit in Pyongyang as a "historic occasion" that deepened mutual trust and reaffirmed their "unshakable will" to strengthen the traditional friendship between the two countries [1, 2].
China remains North Korea's largest economic partner, accounting for nearly 98% of North Korea's foreign trade in 2024 [1]. Despite North Korea expanding security cooperation with Russia, including sending troops and munitions to support Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, ties with China remain central to Pyongyang's diplomacy [1, 2].
The China-North Korea relationship is commemorating the 65th anniversary of the 1961 North-China Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance on July 11, 2026 [3].
Xi said, "I am ready to guide the relevant sectors and regions of both sides to the full implementation of the important common understanding achieved among us and lead China-DPRK relations to a long-term, sound and stable development" [1].
