N. Korean Embassy in China hosts reception marking ruling party congress: report

▲ This file image from the Xinhua News Agency shows Li Shulei, a member of the political bureau of the Communist Party of China's central committee, speaking at a North Korean reception in China. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

N Korea-China

N. Korean Embassy in China hosts reception marking ruling party congress: report

SEOUL, April 1 (Yonhap) -- The North Korean Embassy in China has hosted a reception marking the ruling Workers' Party of Korea's congress in February, attended by a senior Chinese ruling party official, a Chinese news report said Wednesday.

Attending the reception in Beijing the previous day, Li Shulei -- a member of the political bureau of the Communist Party of China's central committee -- extended "warm congratulations" on behalf of President Xi Jinping, the Xinhua News Agency said.

In February, the North Korean party held a congress for the first time in five years, putting forth a new five-year economic development plan and other policy directions to guide the country over the next five years.

During Tuesday's reception, Li also said China is willing to work with Pyongyang to strengthen strategic communication, deepen practical cooperation and enhance the well-being and friendship of the peoples of the two nations, Xinhua said.

The Chinese official also vowed to work with North Korea to "make due contributions to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity."

North Korean Ambassador to China Ri Ryong-nam said his country is "willing to work with the Chinese side to follow the will of the top leaders of the two parties and strengthen unity and cooperation in the process of advancing the socialist cause."

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