北朝鮮きたちょうせんと中国ちゅうごくの首都しゅと結むすぶ旅客りょかく列車れっしゃ 5年ねんぶりの運行うんこう再開さいかいで合意ごうい

It has been revealed that North Korea and China have agreed to resume the operation of passenger trains connecting their capitals for the first time in about five years.

There are also indications that while North Korea is deepening its relationship with Russia, including military cooperation, it is keeping a certain distance from China, drawing attention to whether this signals a change in their relations.

Passenger trains connecting North Korea and China have been suspended since January 2020 due to the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Multiple sources familiar with North Korea-China relations told NHK that the railway authorities of both countries have been in discussions and have agreed to soon resume passenger train services connecting Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, and Beijing, the capital of China.

According to those involved, final arrangements are being made, and it is expected that operations could begin as early as next month.

While North Korea is rapidly deepening its military cooperation and other relations with Russia, some point out that it is keeping a certain distance from China, as the Chinese government has shown a willingness to implement United Nations Security Council sanctions in response to North Korea’s nuclear and missile development.

On the other hand, since May this year, visits from North Korea to China for the purpose of inspections and training have been increasing. Experts familiar with North Korea-China relations say, Although there is an improving mood between the two countries, it is necessary to carefully observe whether the resumption of operations truly indicates a substantial change in their relationship.

Regarding this, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to NHKs inquiry by saying, We are not aware of the relevant developments.

They said, Please ask the department in charge.