Xi and Kim send a message to the world: China and North Korea raise their alliance to a new level PHOTO/VIDEO

Xi emphasized that the traditional China–North Korea friendship, “built on shared dreams and goals,” has deep historical and political foundations as well as strong emotional ties. He added that “regardless of changes in the international situation, the firm commitment of the Chinese Party and government to the traditional friendship between China and North Korea will not change,” CGTN reported.

During the meeting, Xi outlined four proposals for developing relations between China and North Korea, including maintaining high-level contacts, enhancing practical cooperation to deliver tangible benefits to citizens, strengthening people-to-people ties through educational and cultural exchanges, and deepening strategic coordination and cooperation to safeguard sovereignty, security, and regional peace.

He also called for expanding cooperation in trade, agriculture, science, and technology, and proposed that the two countries take advantage of the reopening of border crossings, the resumption of air routes, and international passenger train services to strengthen mutual contacts and promote exchanges between their peoples.

Xi also highlighted the importance of commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between China and North Korea, stating that relations between the two ruling parties play a crucial role in the development of bilateral ties.

Following the meeting, the North Korean leader emphasized that North Korea is pleased to see the development achievements China has attained under Xi Jinping’s leadership.

“We will continue to regard the development of North Korea–China relations as the country's most important and primary strategic undertaking, and we will do everything in our power to build North Korea–China relations into a model of international relations, thereby contributing to regional and global peace and prosperity,” Kim stated.

The Chinese leader was given a ceremonial welcome at Pyongyang International Airport, complete with military honors and banners bearing slogans such as, “Long live the unbreakable friendship between North Korea and China,” according to the Xinhua News Agency.