SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed that strengthening bilateral ties, at a time of “serious and complicated” international affairs, was good for regional peace. North Korean state media said so on Friday.

Xi arrived in Pyongyang on Thursday for a two-day visit, the first by a Chinese leader in 14 years. He received a lavish welcome that included a performance of the song “I Love Thee, China” and thousands of people holding up placards that formed a picture of Xi’s face and the Chinese flag. China is the North’s only major ally. Xi’s visit is aimed at bolstering Pyongyang against pressure from U.N. sanctions over its nuclear and missile programs and a breakdown in denuclearization talks with the United States.

The visit also comes a week before Xi and U.S. President Donald Trump meet at the G20 summit in Osaka amid an ongoing trade dispute. Kim said Xi’s visit, which may see China offer fresh support for North Korea’s floundering, sanctions-bound economy, was “decisive” to show their unchanging friendship to the world. Nevertheless, relations have been strained at times, particularly over North Korea’s nuclear program. The two leaders agreed to promote close strategic communication and strengthen cooperation in all fields.

On Thursday, Xi praised Pyongyang’s efforts toward denuclearization and said the world hopes North Korea and the United States can talk to each other and make it a success. (Agencies)