The Chinese leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with North Korea by sending congratulatory messages to newly elected officials through the Supreme People’s Assembly.
On April 4, the Korean Central News Agency reported that Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of China, Wang Yi, Foreign Minister, and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, sent messages to their North Korean counterparts: Prime Minister Pak Thae-song, Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui, and Jo Yong-won, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly.
In his message sent on March 27, Premier Li congratulated Prime Minister Pak on his reappointment. He expressed hope that North Korea would achieve greater success in advancing socialism under Kim Jong Un’s leadership. Li also noted that Sino-North Korean relations are developing to a higher level in this new historical period.
Foreign Minister Wang, in his March 26 message, congratulated Choe on her reappointment. He emphasized that bilateral relations have entered a new phase with significant development opportunities. Wang expressed commitment to strengthening diplomatic communication and cooperation to further develop the traditional friendship between the two nations.
Zhao, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, also congratulated Jo on his election the same day. Zhao stated his intention to expand exchanges and cooperation between the legislative bodies of both countries to enhance Sino-North Korean relations.
Chinese officials unanimously assessed that the Sino-North Korean relationship is developing steadily under the strategic leadership of President Xi Jinping and Kim. They emphasized their commitment to faithfully implement the agreements made between the two top leaders.
The news agency also reported that Gustavo Porras, Chairman of the National Assembly of Nicaragua, sent a congratulatory message to Jo.