North Korea’s Deputy Foreign Minister attended a banquet hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Pyongyang to commemorate the first International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. During the event, he expressed North Korea’s stance on developing relations with China.
The Chinese Embassy in Pyongyang reported that DPRK Vice Foreign Minister for International Organizations Kim Son Gyong participated in the event on Tuesday. He emphasized that the diversity of civilizations, formed through long historical processes, must be respected. Kim also stated that actions solely pursuing geopolitical interests, inciting conflicts between civilizations, and undermining global peace and development should be prevented.
Kim praised China’s initiative in establishing the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, noting its significant contribution to fostering exchanges between nations and civilizations, as well as establishing a fair international order. He stressed that deepening and developing the traditional friendship between North Korea and China aligns with the consistent position of the Workers’ Party of Korea, following the vision of both countries’ supreme leaders.
Furthermore, Kim pledged that North Korea would collaborate with China to protect the shared interests of developing nations and promote genuine internationalism.
International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, observed annually on June 10, was established through a United Nations (UN) General Assembly resolution last year, spearheaded by China.
Wang Yajun, the Chinese Ambassador to North Korea, highlighted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of both the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea. He suggested using this occasion to align with the historical trends of pursuing peace and fostering development, illuminating humanity’s path towards peace and progress through civilizational dialogue.
The event was attended by approximately 60 people, including officials from North Korea’s Foreign and Culture Ministries, diplomats from various countries stationed in North Korea, and Chinese media representatives. A video message from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was also presented.
The Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, briefly reported on the event, mentioning only that the Chinese Embassy in North Korea hosted a banquet. The report noted the attendance of Vice Foreign Minister Kim, relevant officials, diplomatic corps members, Ambassador Wang Yajun, and embassy staff, but did not include any photographs.