China's President Xi Jinping, on a rare visit to long-term ally North Korea, on Monday pledged Beijing's 'unwavering' support to its leader Kim Jong Un. Xi's comments during his two-day visit came in the backdrop of Kim deepening ties with Russia in recent years, much to China's unease. A BBC report quoting Western diplomatic sources said that China has become increasingly concerned about the growing partnership between Pyongyang and Moscow. After meeting Russian leader Vladimir Putin during his recent visit to Beijing, Xi may want to ensure he also keeps Kim in check, especially as Beijing increases its presence on the global stage, the report said. The statement also comes amidst U.S.-Iran conflict over Strait of Hormuz and other issues.
This is the Chinese president's first trip to North Korea since 2019 and also his first foreign visit this year.
