China, North Korea pledge deeper cooperation at premier-level talks

Chinese Premier Li Qiang held talks in Beijing with North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song, focusing on expanding bilateral cooperation and strengthening strategic coordination, according to the state news agency Xinhua.

Li said China is ready to work with North Korea to implement agreements reached by the two countries’ leaders, deepen political mutual trust and broaden cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, transport connectivity, healthcare, education and people-to-people exchanges.

He added that Beijing intends to enhance strategic coordination with Pyongyang to safeguard shared interests and uphold what he described as international justice.

Pak said North Korea firmly supports China in defending its core interests and is prepared to expand cooperation in the economy, trade, science, technology and culture.

He also noted that the 65th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance would provide additional momentum to strengthen bilateral contacts and strategic dialogue.

By Tamilla Hasanova