Earlier this month, China and North Korea marked 75 years of diplomatic relations by reaffirming ties they had previously described as being as close as two fingers on a hand. But North Korea’s decision to send thousands of troops to Russia to fight Ukraine could put those ties to the test.
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From our correspondent in Beijing, Clea Broadhurst
There China is in a delicate situation faced with information on the sending of North Korean troops to Ukraine. She claims to be unaware of this decision, despite confirmations from Western sources and the South Korea. Beijing advocates neutrality and a peaceful resolution of the conflict to avoid being seen as directly involved.
China supports the Russiaits strategic ally, without crossing the line of direct military engagement. It attempts to benefit from this alliance while preserving its economic relations with the UNITED STATES and Europe. In parallel, Xi Jinping displays a position in favor of global security without isolating Moscow.
Limit tensions
Military cooperation between Russia and North Korea could include the transfer of sensitive technologies, such as missiles and submarines. Under pressure, Moscow may be more inclined to share these advances with Pyongyang, strengthening North Korea’s military capabilities and destabilizing the region. This worries China, which seeks to limit tensions around the Korean peninsula.
A balancing act for Beijing, which must navigate with finesse to preserve its economic and strategic interests while avoiding diplomatic isolation.
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