China and North Korea agree to expand military and economic cooperation

Chinese President Xi Jinping made his first visit to North Korea in seven years, meeting leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang. The two sides announced a broadening of their partnership, pledging deeper cooperation in politics, economics, culture, science and the armed forces. Kim said China would fully support the “One China” principle, which views Taiwan as part of China. Both governments said they will increase high‑level exchanges and strengthen strategic communication to defend their sovereignty and security. Chinese state media added that Xi will use the trip to achieve significant progress in bilateral relations. The meeting was held under a large Chinese flag display and included remarks that the North Korean nuclear programme remains “non‑negotiable,” while China emphasized regional stability.

The agreement underscores the long‑standing alliance between the two nations and may affect the strategic balance in East Asia, drawing attention from South Korea, the United States and regional observers.