China said Wednesday that it had “no information at the moment” on the possibility of a bilateral meeting in Russia between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who are among world leaders attending a World War II anniversary in Moscow.
Russia’s foreign ministry said Tuesday that Kim and Xi are among 26 leaders who have accepted invitations to join the May 9 ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
North Korea has not officially commented on a possible visit by Kim to Moscow, but it would be Kim’s first overseas trip since taking the helm of the reclusive state three years ago.
Asked whether Xi would hold a bilateral meeting with Kim on the sidelines of the May 9 ceremony in Moscow, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei replied, “I have no relevant information at the moment.”
Hong did not elaborate further.
North Korea is China’s only formal treaty ally, but Beijing’s leadership has appeared to become increasingly frustrated by the North’s nuclear and missile ambitions.
Analysts say North Korea won’t give up its nuclear weapons program because having it would prolong the Kim regime and help obtain political and economic benefits from the international community.
With China cold-shouldering North Korea’s nuclear policy, Pyongyang is seeking to deepen both diplomatic and economic ties with Russia. (Yonhap)
