Kim Jong Un arrives in Beijing, where he will attend a grand parade alongside Xi Jinping and Putin. This marks the first time all three leaders will appear on the same stage, fueling speculation of a new anti-US alliance.
Beijing/Seoul: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has departed for the Chinese capital, Beijing, by train. The purpose of this visit is not only to meet with the leaders of China and Russia but also to send an important message to the world. This will be the first time Kim Jong Un, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin will be seen on the same platform.
Why This Visit is Special
Kim Jong Un will participate in a grand military parade in Beijing. This parade is being held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and China's victory over Japan. The joint appearance of leaders from all three countries on the same stage is considered a direct signal to the United States and Western nations that these countries are strengthening their relations.
Who is Accompanying Kim Jong Un
According to North Korea's state news agency KCNA, Kim Jong Un is accompanied by his Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui and several high-ranking officials on this trip. This is Kim's first visit to China since 2019. He has visited China five times since assuming power in 2011.
Possibility of Meetings with Putin and Xi Jinping
Russian President Vladimir Putin has already arrived in China. He is here to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting and this parade. According to Russia's TASS news agency, there is a possibility of a separate meeting between Putin and Kim Jong Un. Experts also believe that a trilateral meeting of the three leaders could take place, although this has not been officially confirmed.
Growing Proximity Between Russia and North Korea
In recent years, relations between North Korea and Russia have significantly strengthened. According to reports, North Korea supplied weapons and soldiers to Russia during the Russia-Ukraine war, and in return, Russia provided economic and military aid. This partnership remains a cause for concern for the United States and Western countries.
Strain in China-North Korea Relations
In recent years, there had been some tension in the relations between China and North Korea. Experts believe that Kim Jong Un aims to mend relations with China through this visit. China is not only North Korea's largest trading partner but also provides economic assistance.
Joint Front Against the United States
North Korea is consistently taking steps that position it as a crucial part of an alliance against the United States. It has recently made statements on international issues such as the Middle East and the Taiwan Strait, indicating an attempt to form a united front against the US in conjunction with Russia and China.
Kim's Focus on Missile Program
Before departing for Beijing, Kim Jong Un visited his country's missile institute. He reviewed the engine development of the next-generation ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile). According to KCNA, this missile will be capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads and evading US defense systems.
Nuclear Program Continues Despite Dialogue Efforts
The United States and South Korea have repeatedly expressed a desire for dialogue with North Korea. However, after the failure of the meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un in 2019, North Korea has distanced itself from negotiations. Instead, it has emphasized strengthening its nuclear and missile programs.
