California Today

Xi Jinping Returns to Beijing After Rare North Korea Visit, Reaffirming Alliance with Kim Jong Un

09 June 2026 07:10

Chinese President Xi Jinping returned to Beijing on Tuesday after a rare two-day visit to North Korea, where he met with leader Kim Jong Un to reestablish the strategic alliance between the two countries. The summit focused on expanding cooperation in trade, agriculture, construction, and technology, while avoiding discussion of North Korea's nuclear program.

Experts say Xi aimed to restore China's exclusive influence over North Korea, which has shifted its foreign policy priority toward Russia in recent years. The visit included a tour of a friendship tower and a tree-planting ceremony symbolizing bilateral ties.

Tags

Likelypoliticsinternational relationsdiplomacy