China confirms Kim Jong-un just met Xi Jinping

Tu Quynh• DNUM_AIZAFZCABI 20:08

North Korean leader meets Chinese President for two days in Dalian, apparently to prepare for the upcoming US-North Korea summit.

North Korean leader and Chinese President meet in Dalian. Photo: Reuters.

China state news agencyXinhuaNorth Korean leader Kim Jong-un made a two-day visit to the northeastern Chinese city of Dalian on May 7-8, the Chinese government said today.

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Kim Jong-un and hosted a welcoming banquet. The two leaders discussed North Korea-China relations and other issues of common concern.

This is believed to be a last-minute diplomatic coordination effort between Kim Jong-un and Mr. Xi ahead of a summit with US President Donald Trump. The Chinese president expressed support for dialogue between Pyongyang and Washington.

"After the first meeting between me and Comrade Chairman, China-DPRK relations and the situation on the Korean Peninsula have both made positive progress. I feel happy about that," Mr. Tap said.

The North Korean leader shared the same opinion, declaring "many positive results after the historic meeting with the Chinese President".

In March, Kim Jong-un made his first visit to Beijing since taking power six years ago. The trip was only confirmed by China and North Korea after Kim Jong-un returned to North Korea in an armored train.

Earlier, Seoul-based KBS TV station said Dalian airport was closed from 8am to 1pm on May 7 when a plane believed to be carrying Mr. Kim landed, and roads around the Bangchuidao guesthouse were closed that afternoon.

The Bangchuidao Guesthouse is reserved for high-ranking foreign officials. NHK television also showed footage of a motorcade of cars with black windows driving through the streets of Dalian.