A series of strategic handshakes in Beijing next week will solidify key alliances for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. His first trip abroad since 2019 will see him attend a military parade on Wednesday, where he will meet with the leaders of China and Russia.
The parade, commemorating the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end, has been deliberately avoided by Western leaders due to the presence of Vladimir Putin. This creates a more intimate setting for the three non-Western powers to coordinate their strategies.
The visit is of paramount importance for Kim, who needs to ensure the continued flow of economic support from his primary ally, China. This trip is a public affirmation of that vital relationship.
The meeting of the three leaders is also a powerful geopolitical statement. It showcases a deepening partnership aimed at countering U.S. influence and reshaping the global order to better suit their interests.