Ministry of Unification: "North Korea-China Border Not Yet at Stage to Declare Lifted"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] The Ministry of Unification stated on the 22nd that the North Korea-China border, which was closed due to COVID-19, is not yet at a stage where it can be said to have been lifted.

Lee Jong-joo, spokesperson for the Ministry of Unification, responded to a question about the North Korea-China border situation at a regular briefing that day, saying, "It is not yet at a stage to say that 'material trade has resumed' or that 'the North Korea-China border closure has been lifted.'"

Previously, the North Korea-China border was closed due to COVID-19, but this year, preparations for the resumption of trade between North Korea and China have been steadily observed, leading to speculation that the North Korea-China border might soon open.

The Ministry of Unification explained, "Considering various trends, it is believed that preparations for opening the North Korea-China border are in the final stages," adding, "The specific timing of reopening is a matter to be decided through consultations between North Korea and China, so it is difficult to make a premature judgment."

Regarding the inter-Korean communication line, it was reported that regular daily calls have been conducted since the 4th of last month, but the establishment of a video conference system or substantive dialogue has not yet followed.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.