Economic and Trade Ties
North Korea and China have established economic and trade ties that reflect their ancient friendship and current relations. Throughout the years, North Korea has become heavily dependent on China for both its economic and political needs. China provides North Korea with various resources and supplies that are essential for its current stability. In 2017, China has exported goods and services to North Korea worth more than US$3 billion. Furthermore, China accounts for more than 90% of North Korea’s total imports and is North Korea’s largest trade partner.
China has also shown an interest in investing in the North Korean economy. Chinese investors are said to be engaging in projects related to garment industries, rare metals, real estate, and information technology. In addition, the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) has allowed North Korean students to study in Chinese universities and has signed several agreements with North Korea in areas such as agriculture and science.
Political Relations
North Korea and China have always maintained a stable political relationship. China is the ally of North Korea and a guarantor of its security. China has stood firmly behind North Korea in various occasions, including various negotiations with South Korea and United Nations sanctions.
Although the countries have a friendly relationship, China has also criticized North Korea’s initiatives, including its nuclear program and missile tests. In 2017, China’s Foreign Ministry denounced North Korea’s missile test and urged the country to abide by the agreements and commitments it made in the six-party talks.
Humanitarian Aid
China is one of the few countries that provide North Korea with humanitarian aid. It has sent several aid shipments and medical assistance to North Korea since 1995. In 2014, the Chinese Red Cross Society sent more than US$4.4 million in aid to North Korea in relief from natural disasters such as floods and droughts. This assistance was provided in the form of food, medicine, and clothing.
China has also provided North Korea with medical and educational aid. According to reports, China sent more than US$50 million worth of medical and educational supplies in 2005. Furthermore, China’s Ministry of Education has set up medical and teaching training centers in North Korea.
Cultural Exchange
North Korea and China have a deep-rooted cultural connection. This connection is evident in the exchange of books, arts, and literature. Furthermore, both countries have organized various cultural events in order to promote their cultural exchange.
In 2017, North Korea and China organized a symposium on the preservation of traditional cultural heritage. During the event, experts from both countries shared their insights on the conservation of traditional culture. Moreover, the two countries held an online symposium on the preservation and promotion of mutual cultural heritage.
Tourism
In recent years, the tourism industry has become a major source of income for North Korea and China. In North Korea, the number of Chinese tourists has grown in recent years. Furthermore, numerous Chinese tourists have visited the country for business and leisure purposes. Meanwhile, tourist exchanges between China and North Korea have increased since 2017.
Moreover, North Korea and China are working together to promote tourism initiatives. North Korea has signed agreements with several Chinese companies and agencies to promote tourism in both countries. These agreements have laid the groundwork for the further development of tourism initiatives and projects.
Energy Supply
North Korea and China are also working together on various energy projects. China has been a major source of energy for North Korea since the 1940s. Moreover, China has provided North Korea with a range of energy resources, including electricity, coal, and petroleum products.
In recent years, China has been a key supporter of North Korea’s energy sector. In 2016, China provided North Korea with a loan of US$500 million to finance the construction of energy infrastructure projects in North Korea. Furthermore, Chinese companies are involved in numerous energy projects in North Korea, including those related to petroleum, coal, and electricity.
Military Ties
The military ties between North Korea and China are strong. Both countries hold frequent joint military exercises and have supported each other during military operations. Furthermore, China has provided North Korea with crucial military and technological assistance over the years.
In 2018, China and North Korea held a joint military exercise that aimed to enhance the combat capabilities of both countries. Additionally, the two countries have signed agreements on military cooperation and technology exchanges. The Chinese army also sent a high-level delegation to North Korea in 2018 in order to discuss military cooperation between the two countries.
Political Connections
North Korea and China have established strong political connections over the years. Both countries share a mutual concern for regional security and stability. In addition, North Korea and China have held numerous high-level meetings in order to discuss political issues.
In 2017, Chinese President Xi Jinping invited North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to visit China. During the visit, Kim met with Chinese officials and reaffirmed the countries’ commitment to strengthening their economic and political ties. Furthermore, China, North Korea, and South Korea recently agreed to establish a joint economic zone in order to promote regional economic integration.
Regional Challenges
Despite the deep-rooted ties between North Korea and China, both countries have their own regional concerns. For example, North Korea is worried about China’s increasing influence in the region while China is concerned about North Korea’s nuclear program and missile tests.
Moreover, North Korea and China have different interests when it comes to regional issues, such as the Korean Peninsula reunification process. North Korea is seeking for a peaceful reunification process while China is openly supporting such process but does not want to be too involved.
Public Opinion
Public opinion in North Korea and China is favorable towards the relationship between the two countries. North Koreans view China as an ally that provides them with essential resources and political support. Meanwhile, Chinese citizens generally support North Korea’s efforts to modernize its economy and open up to the world.
In addition, China and North Korea are both members of the six-party talks and advocates for a peaceful resolution to the Korean Peninsula conflict. The nations have also expressed a mutual desire to pursue economic ties that benefit both countries.
