Beijing (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – On Tuesday, China’s President Xi Jinping hosted his Russian and North Korean counterparts in Beijing for the first time, as Putin and Kim will both observe China’s 80th Victory Day parade in Beijing.
Xi hosted Vladimir Putin for discussions at the Great Hall of the People and later at his private residence, referring to him as his “old friend. ” A few hours afterwards, reporters say Kim Jong Un’s armoured train arrived in Beijing.
The three leaders are scheduled to lead a large military parade on Wednesday, during which the Chinese president will showcase his vision for a new global order, amid the strain on Western alliances caused by U.S. President Donald Trump‘s “America First’ policies.
On Monday, Xi also met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for discussions. During Putin’s and Xi’s meeting, Russia’s Gazprom and China’s National Petroleum Corporation signed a deal to boost gas supplies and also agreed on a new pipeline that might supply China for three decades.
What might Putin and Kim discuss during their meeting?
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on Tuesday that Russian and North Korean representatives will talk about a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un once Kim arrives in China later today.
Peskov mentioned that Kim is scheduled to arrive in Beijing this evening local time. Following his arrival, officials will review the plans for Putin and Kim’s schedules. It is also likely that the two will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their visit.
When did Kim last visit China?
Kim Jong Un’s last trip to China before 2025 occurred in January 2019. This was an event celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between North Korea and China. Kim also travelled to China on his armoured train, preferred by North Korean leaders because of their history and security concerns.