China and North Korea have adopted a long-term and far-reaching plan to enhance their bilateral relations, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Wednesday. The plan was agreed during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to North Korea on Monday. The visit took place at a time when North Korea’s ties with Russia have become closer than ever, with Pyongyang reportedly sending troops and military equipment to assist Moscow in the Ukraine war.

KCNA reported that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and President Xi Jinping expressed satisfaction over the formulation of the plan aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. During the two-day visit, both nations reaffirmed their historical friendship and mutual cooperation, pledging to make their relationship one of the world’s strongest and most strategic partnerships.

In a letter to Kim Jong Un after the visit, Xi Jinping said both leaders held in-depth discussions on issues of mutual interest and reached several important agreements. He added that the meeting reflected their shared determination to reinforce traditional friendship, promote joint development and prosperity, and maintain regional and global peace and stability.