China and North Korea celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties with pledges of cooperation

China and North Korea celebrated the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations with promises of increased cooperation. Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of their relationship in a message to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Despite their close ties, China has been cautious as North Korea strengthens its relationship with Russia. This year, North Korea and Russia signed a strategic treaty that includes mutual defense agreements. Kim Jong Un also oversaw a live artillery exercise, highlighting military readiness. He stated that North Korea would use all available forces, including nuclear weapons, if its sovereignty is threatened.