In his first trip abroad since 2019, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit his country’s most important ally, China. He is scheduled to attend a military parade in Beijing next Wednesday that will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
The parade, hosted by President Xi Jinping, will also be attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and 24 other foreign leaders. However, it will be boycotted by the U.S. and major Western European powers in protest of Putin’s presence.
The visit is a critical diplomatic undertaking for Kim, who needs to ensure the continued support of his primary benefactor. China accounts for approximately 97% of North Korea’s trade, making this relationship indispensable for his regime.
The trip also serves to solidify North Korea’s position within a growing anti-Western bloc. By appearing with both Xi and Putin, especially after providing military aid to Russia, Kim is sending a clear message about his geopolitical allegiances.
Kim Jong Un’s First Foreign Trip in Years is to Ally China
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