China reaffirms 65‑year China‑North Korea friendship treaty amid strategic talks

Chinese President Xi Jinping met North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song in Beijing on July 10, marking the 65th anniversary of the 1961 Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance. Xi said China’s commitment to the traditional friendship will not change "regardless of how the international situation evolves," pledging strategic resolve, continued support for North Korea’s socialist cause, and defence of both countries’ sovereign and security interests under the treaty’s mutual‑defence clause.

Kim Jong Un sent a congratulatory letter stating that bilateral friendship has risen to a “new strategic level” and reaffirmed North Korea’s support for China’s core interests, including the Taiwan issue. The leaders exchanged letters, underscoring the alliance as a counter‑balance to U.S. pressure. The meeting follows Xi’s June visit to Pyongyang – his first in seven years – where a joint statement on security cooperation was issued. Reports from Reuters, Xinhua, KCNA and other outlets note the symbolic significance of the anniversary celebrations and China’s intent to deepen political, economic and security cooperation with North Korea.