China boosts North Korea partnership with rare praise during high-profile visit
North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song began a three-day trip to China this week, as Beijing offered rare praise for its socialist neighbour's economic achievements. The visit coincides with celebrations marking 65 years since the signing of the two countries' only formal defence pact.
North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song landed at Beijing Capital International Airport on Friday morning to begin a three-day trip to China. Pak, a member of the Politburo Presidium of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, was accompanied by a joint party and government delegation.
During the visit, Chinese officials offered rare praise for their socialist neighbour's economic achievements, a gesture read as a sign of warming ties between the two countries. The trip coincides with events marking the 65th anniversary of the signing of Beijing's only formal defence pact with North Korea.
Observers see the visit as part of China's effort to reinforce its regional influence and deepen economic links with Pyongyang. Full details of the visit's agenda and any agreements reached have not yet been made public.
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