Q: January 8 is the birthday of DPRK's Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un. Has the Chinese side sent a message of congratulations to him? What is China's expectation for its relationship with the DPRK this year?
A: China and the DPRK are friendly neighbors. There is a long-standing tradition of amicable exchanges between China and the DPRK. The Chinese side has conveyed congratulations to the DPRK side. We wish the DPRK people new achievements in the economic and social development of the country under the leadership of First Secretary King Jong-un.
In the new year, the Chinese side will push forward its traditional friendship and cooperation with the DPRK in keeping with the principles of carrying on the tradition, looking to the future, developing good-neighborly and friendly relations and enhancing cooperation.