Overview

• The October 9 meeting coincided with events marking the Workers' Party of Korea's 80th anniversary, where both sides affirmed plans to strengthen friendship, maintain strategic communication, and expand high-level exchanges.
• State media from both countries said the talks covered comprehensive cooperation, including increased visits and exchanges across multiple fields.
• Li Qiang's trip is the first official visit to North Korea by a Chinese premier in 16 years, following Wen Jiabao's 2009 visit.
• South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported signs of preparations for a military parade in Pyongyang, saying it could take place on October 10 as part of the celebrations.
• Foreign delegations joined the commemorations, including Russia's Dmitry Medvedev and Vietnam's To Lam, and Kim used a late-night speech to vow a hardline response to U.S. pressure.