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North Korean leader Kim Jong-un shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping before their summit at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on September 4. / Source: Xinhua News

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to strengthen ties during their summit in Beijing on September 4, the first meeting between the two leaders in six years.

Kim traveled by special train to attend China’s military parade marking the 80th anniversary of its World War II victory. At the Great Hall of the People, Xi described China and North Korea as “good neighbors, good friends, and good comrades sharing the same destiny.” He praised Kim’s participation in the anniversary event as proof of Pyongyang’s commitment to preserving the legacy of wartime victory, calling it “an important opportunity” to further develop bilateral friendship and cooperation.

Xi stressed that China values its traditional ties with North Korea and will “maintain, consolidate, and advance relations no matter how the international situation changes.” He pledged continued support for Pyongyang’s chosen development path and for deepening exchanges on governance and party-building, as well as enhancing mutual understanding and friendship.

The Chinese leader also emphasized the need for stronger coordination in global and regional affairs, noting Pyongyang’s backing of China’s initiatives on development, security, and governance.

Kim responded by hailing the military parade as evidence of China’s “firm resolve to defend world peace,” saying it highlighted Beijing’s growing international stature. He recalled the deep friendship forged between past leaders during the anti-Japanese struggle, pledging to carry forward this legacy.

“Whatever changes occur in the international situation, the friendly feelings between North Korea and China will not change,” Kim said, adding that deepening bilateral ties is North Korea’s “firm will.” He also praised Beijing’s “fair stance” on Korean Peninsula issues and expressed willingness to strengthen coordination through the United Nations and other multilateral frameworks.

Kim voiced support for China on Taiwan, Tibet, and Xinjiang, affirming Pyongyang’s backing of Beijing’s efforts to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity. Shortly after the talks, Kim boarded his special train to return home with his daughter Kim Ju-ae and senior officials including Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui.