Xi and Putin Extend Greetings to Kim on North Korea's Founding Day
Chinese and Russian leaders sent messages to North Korea's Kim Jong Un on the nation's founding anniversary, emphasizing strategic partnerships and deeper cooperation.
On the occasion of North Korea's founding anniversary, Kim Jong Un received congratulatory messages from Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, as reported by state media KCNA. This event marks 76 years since the establishment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on September 9, 1948.
Vladimir Putin's message highlighted the strategic relationship between Russia and North Korea:
"I am sure that the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and the DPRK will be strengthened in a planned way thanks to our joint efforts."
Meanwhile, Xi Jinping's message called for enhanced strategic communication and cooperation with North Korea, reflecting the long-standing diplomatic ties between China and the DPRK, which were established in 1949.
Last year, Kim Jong Un commemorated the founding day with a parade featuring paramilitary groups and engaged in diplomatic exchanges, expressing his commitment to strengthening ties with China and Russia. This aligns with North Korea's "Juche" policy of self-reliance and its "Songun" or military-first approach.
The DPRK, with a population of approximately 25 million, has been under Kim Jong Un's leadership since 2011. Despite its high literacy rate of nearly 100%, the country faces significant international challenges due to its nuclear weapons program and the resulting sanctions.
North Korea's complex geopolitical position is further complicated by its limited access to outside information and its ongoing tensions with South Korea. As the nation celebrates its founding, the messages from Xi and Putin underscore the intricate diplomatic relationships in the region, particularly in light of North Korea's nuclear ambitions and its centrally planned economy.
