Pyongyang: China's top envoy to North Korea has visited a cemetery in an eastern province of North Korea to honor Chinese troops who lost their lives during the 1950-53 Korean War. The visit marked the 75th anniversary of China's participation in the conflict, as per a statement from the Chinese Embassy in North Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the visit comes amid signs of improving relations between North Korea and China, which had been strained due to Pyongyang's closer ties with Moscow. Ambassador Wang Yajun led a delegation of approximately 60 people, including staff from the embassy, to the Changjin Lake Chinese People's Volunteer Army Martyrs' Cemetery in South Hamgyong Province. The purpose was to pay respects to the Chinese soldiers who died during a significant two-week battle in late 1950 near Changjin Lake, a key battle zone during the Korean War.
In his eulogy, Wang stated, "China and North Korea joined hands to repel aggressors and overcome the dangerous situation. The Chinese troops ultimately completed their mission." North Korean officials, including Kim Yong-ju, director of the first Asian bureau of the North's foreign ministry, were present at the event.
The previous year marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between North Korea and China. However, both countries did not engage in significant celebrations or high-level exchanges, as North Korea was strengthening its military ties with Russia. Currently, Pyongyang seems to be making efforts to repair its relationship with China by planning to resume group tours for Chinese tourists and restarting construction on a bridge over the Amnok River at the shared border, as reported by Seoul's unification ministry.