China’s President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held their first meeting in six years on September 4, 2025, in Beijing.
This historic meeting came just after Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin attended a massive military parade in Beijing, marking the first public appearance of the three leaders together. During the parade, China showcased its military strength as a display of power.
In their talks, Xi emphasized the need for closer strategic coordination between China and North Korea on global and regional issues to protect their shared interests.
He described the two nations as “good neighbors, good friends and good comrades” with a common destiny, pledging to strengthen high-level exchanges, strategic communication, and practical cooperation across various fields. Xi also stated that China’s position on ties with North Korea would remain unchanged despite global changes.
Kim Jong Un expressed strong support for China’s successful parade and reassured his commitment to backing China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and development goals.
He arrived in Beijing on his iconic green armored train with his teenage daughter, making her first public appearance abroad. The meeting also included key figures such as Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong.
This diplomatic event took place amid evolving geopolitical dynamics, with Kim recently deepening ties with Russia, notably pledging full support for Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine.
China remains North Korea’s largest trading partner and long-term ally since the Korean War era, although relations had been cautious recently.
The joint appearance and talks send a clear signal of solidifying alliances between China, North Korea, and Russia amid increasing global tensions, presenting a united front intended to influence regional stability and international affairs.
