Zhao Lijian of China Begins North Korea Visit Schedule... Choe Ryong Hae Welcomes at Airport (Update)

by Hwang Seoyul

Published 11 Apr.2024 21:37(KST)

Zhao Leji, the third-ranking official in China's official hierarchy and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, arrived in Pyongyang on the afternoon of the 11th.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

According to APTN footage and others, Chairman Zhao arrived at Pyongyang Sunan Airport on the afternoon of the same day via Air China flight and was greeted by Choe Ryong-hae, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of North Korea.

Chairman Zhao descended the stairs connected to the aircraft, shook hands with Chairman Choe, and was introduced to senior North Korean officials by Chairman Choe.

Chairman Zhao also introduced to Chairman Choe about ten party and government delegation members, including Liu Jinchao, Director of the International Liaison Department of the Chinese Communist Party, and Ma Zhaoxu, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, who had arrived earlier. Chairman Zhao is the highest-ranking Chinese official to visit North Korea since the COVID-19 pandemic.

From the 11th to the 13th, he is scheduled to attend official events in North Korea, including the opening ceremony of the Year of North Korea-China Friendship. During this period, a meeting with Kim Jong-un, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea, is also expected.