Beijing: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping began talks in Beijing, marking their first bilateral meeting in more than six years.
According to Yonhap News Agency, China's state-run broadcaster CCTV reported that Kim and Xi started their discussions at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Earlier, China's foreign ministry spokesman, Guo Jiakun, announced that the leaders would hold a summit to discuss bilateral relations and exchange views on issues of common interest.
Guo Jiakun highlighted China's desire to strengthen strategic communication with North Korea and deepen experiences in state governance through close exchanges and cooperation. He also expressed China's intent to further develop traditional ties with Pyongyang. This summit is the first between Kim and Xi since their last meeting in Pyongyang in June 2019.
Kim's visit to Beijing comes on the third day of his stay, after arriving aboard his private armored train with his daughter and heir apparent, Ju-ae. His visit coincides with the parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Following the military parade, Kim appeared with Xi and Putin at a reception hosted by the Chinese president and held a summit with Putin.