Kim Jong Un Reaffirms Support for 'One China' Principle in Meeting with Xi Jinping

by Inhyeok Choe Posted : June 8, 2026, 20:18Updated : June 8, 2026, 20:18
Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, meets with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Beijing last September
Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, meets with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Beijing last September [Photo=Reuters]
Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, designated the North Korea-China relationship as a top strategic priority on June 8, reaffirming his support for China's core diplomatic principle of 'One China.'

According to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency, Kim met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang on the afternoon of June 8. During the meeting, Kim emphasized the importance of strengthening and developing the friendship between North Korea and China, stating, "Consolidating and advancing the friendship between North Korea and China in this new era is the choice of the people and a demand of the times."

Kim declared, "We will continue to regard the development of North Korea-China relations as the most significant strategic task of our state," and expressed a commitment to making the relationship a model for international relations while contributing jointly to regional and global peace and prosperity.

Regarding changes in the international situation, Kim clearly stated his intention to coordinate foreign policy with China. He remarked, "The international community is undergoing unprecedented and enormous changes," and reiterated that North Korea will steadfastly uphold the One China principle and firmly support China's policies and positions to safeguard its core interests.

Additionally, Kim expressed gratitude for Xi's visit to Pyongyang, noting that it demonstrates a special emphasis on and friendship towards North Korea, which serves as a significant encouragement for the North Korean side.

This visit marks Xi's first trip to North Korea since 2019 and the second since Kim took power.



* This article has been translated by AI.