China’s Top Legislator Hopes the North Korean‑US Nuclear Deal Gets the Green Light
Who’s Got the VIP Pass?
Li Zhanshu graced the 70th‑anniversary parade in Pyongyang, carrying the Heavyweights’ favor from President Xi Jinping. As a key member of the Communist Party’s Politburo Standing Committee, Li’s messages are taken seriously—think of him as the charm‑queen of Beijing’s political wing.
Why Should We Care?
When the 5‑minute announcement came out, Li said he’s “highly confident” that the June summit agreement between Kim Jong‑Un and President Trump will finally be put into practice. The goal? A genuinely denuclearised Korean Peninsula, which would mean less tension, fewer missile launches, and a lot more global breath‑taking.
Key Takeaways from Li’s Speech
- China stands firmly behind the DPRK’s push for regional peace.
- He praised Pyongyang’s “efforts” toward stability.
- He urged the United States to follow through on its June commitments.
Trump’s Two‑Ticket Approach
In Singapore, Trump and Kim went through a “vague” agreement about denuclearisation. The problem? It’s still mostly paperwork, and there’s been hardly any real progress. Trump’s frustration turned into a finger‑pointing at Beijing, labeling it as the main reason Washington struggles to get a solid handle on Pyongyang.
Missiles: The Big No‑Show
This Sunday’s parade was oddly devoid of intercontinental missiles—an omission that Trump declared a “big, very positive statement.” Whether that’s real progress or just a publicity stunt remains to be seen, but it certainly made headlines.
What Kim’s Saying
Kim told reporters he’s sticking to the consensus reached in the summit and that the North Korean side is “ready to take steps.” He added: “The US should take matching actions so we can truly move towards a political settlement.” It’s a polite nod that both sides need to do more, not just talk.
Xi’s Love Letter to Kim
Li presented a signed letter from President Xi to Kim that reads like a firm handshake: the Communist Party and Chinese government are “unswerving” in protecting and expanding China‑DPRK ties. It’s a strategic reassurance—China’s coming in hot with support.
Back‑and‑Forth Relations
Beijing–Pyongyang relations had dragged through a rough patch after China backed UN sanctions against North Korea’s nuclear program. Yet the tides have rolled in recently: Kim met with Xi three times this year. While Xi hasn’t visited Pyongyang yet, he’s sent Li—all the expert finesse, if you will—to act on his behalf.
In Summary
- Li Zhanshu signals China’s optimism for the US‑North Korea nuclear deal’s implementation.
- Trump fears China may be complicating U.S. talks with Pyongyang.
- Pyongyang’s recent absence of missile displays is a notable (and possibly positive) gesture.
- Xi’s letter reinforces Beijing’s ongoing commitment to supporting North Korea.
- Despite previous sanctions, ties are tightening as high‑level meetings increase.
So, while the world holds its breath for real progress, Beijing’s sending its top politburo member to keep the conversation friendly and forward‑moving. Let’s hope the next step isn’t just empty words, but a genuine stride toward peace.
