China’s top legislator, Zhao Leji, arrived in Pyongyang on Thursday to attend events marking the 75th anniversary of China’s diplomatic ties with North Korea, video footage showed.

Video footage by APTN and other sources showed Zhao arriving at Pyongyang Sunan International Airport in the afternoon via an Air China plane and being received by Choe Ryong-hae, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly.

After landing, Zhao was seen vigorously shaking hands with Choe and being introduced to high-level North Korean officials.

According to previous announcements by both countries, Zhao plans to visit North Korea from Thursday through Saturday to attend celebratory events on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of their establishment of diplomatic ties.

North Korea appears to be stepping up high-level exchanges with Beijing, as much as it has been expanding its relationship with Russia, including military cooperation.

Zhao is the highest-level Chinese official visiting North Korea sinc
e the COVID-19 pandemic practically halted high-level exchanges between North Korea and China, its longtime ally and largest economic benefactor.

During his visit, Zhao is expected to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

Source: Yonhap News Agency