Inside Xi and Kim’s parade meeting — power, nukes, and succession

Sep 07, 2025 - 10:01

Kim Jong-un’s presence at Beijing’s September 3rd military parade, accompanied by his daughter, marked a striking moment in Xi–Kim relations. The visit highlighted both pageantry and politics: Xi projecting strength at home, Kim signaling loyalty while showcasing his heir apparent. For China, North Korea remains a key partner in a growing bloc with Russia, where each side offers something the others need — Beijing brings markets and arms, Pyongyang supplies manpower, Moscow adds resources. Yet the optics mattered most: Kim seated prominently, his daughter by his side, softening his image while underscoring North Korea’s dynastic continuity.