Pyongyang: North Korea's state media highlighted the strong relationship with China, emphasizing a commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties as both nations commemorate the 64th anniversary of their mutual defense treaty.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Rodong Sinmun newspaper stated, "It is the unwavering position of our party and the republic to ceaselessly strengthen and develop the friendly relations between North Korea and China." The report coincides with the anniversary of the North Korea-China Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, signed on July 11, 1961, by North Korea's state founder Kim Il-sung and then Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai.
The newspaper portrayed the treaty as a significant milestone in reinforcing strategic cooperation between the countries, especially amid threats to international peace and security posed by military adventurism and hegemonistic policies from hostile forces. Despite efforts by adversaries to undermine the friendship and unity between the two nations, the bilateral relationship remains resilient, the report noted.
North Korea and China are committed to elevating their friendship, adhering to the spirit of the treaty. The two countries are working to repair their traditionally close ties, which have been strained by North Korea's support for Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. Following North Korea's deployment of forces to assist Russia, Moscow has become Pyongyang's primary partner in cooperation and assistance.