China’s Xi conveys desire for stronger ties with North Korea

Seoul, Nov 26 (EFE).- Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un his desire to strengthen bilateral ties, to which he attaches “great importance,” Pyongyang’s state media reported Saturday.

Xi’s communication came in a letter sent to the North Korean dictator in response to Kim congratulating him for securing a third term as general secretary during the Chinese Communist Party Congress in October.

Xi’s letter underlined that his meetings with Kim served to establish important common points of understanding and progress in bilateral relations to safeguard common interests, according to KCNA agency.

Xi also mentioned “unprecedented changes” taking place in the world and the need to defend the cause of socialism and safeguard peace and stability in the region and in the world.

In this regard, both leaders look to strengthen bilateral relations for betterment of their peoples, according to KCNA.

Xi and Kim have expressed willingness to make new and active contributions to promoting peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region and in the world, said the mouthpiece of the North Korean regime.

China has been North Korea’s main ally and economic benefactor since Beijing’s support for the Communists in the Korean War (1950-1953) that divided Korea into North and South. EFE

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