The Anxiety Behind Xi Jinping's Pyongyang Visit
Watch the ceremony: twenty-one guns, two national anthems, state dinners, signed agreements, and crowds on cue. Chinese state media called President Xi Jinping’s June visit to Pyongyang “a routine strengthening of ties.”
TL;DR
- President Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang was characterized by elaborate ceremonies, which some interpret as a sign of anxiety to reclaim a client state.
- Geopolitical events preceding the visit include Iran's meetings with Russian officials on sanctions evasion and strategic coordination, and U.S.-China military talks to manage escalation risks.
- North Korea announced plans to expand its nuclear arsenal 'exponentially' shortly before Xi's arrival, following the inspection of a new uranium enrichment facility.