China Urges All Involved Parties to Exercise Caution Following North Korea’s Artillery Fire

Following reports that North Korea had launched an artillery barrage near two South Korean islands, China has appealed for restraint from all concerned parties on Friday. Wang Wenbin, a spokesman for China’s foreign ministry, urged relevant parties to remain calm and avoid actions that could heighten tensions or escalate the situation. Wang emphasized the importance of creating an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue.

Shortly after the artillery firing was reported, South Korean marines conducted live-fire drills on Yeonpyeong Island, located near the border, as per Yonhap news agency.

Wang stated that China is closely monitoring the evolving situation on the Korean Peninsula, noting recent intensifications in confrontations and ongoing tensions. He reiterated China’s position of advocating for peace and stability on the peninsula and resolving issues through dialogue and consultation, given its proximity as a neighbor.

China’s close relationship with North Korea was highlighted earlier in the week during a phone call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on New Year’s Day. During this conversation, the leaders declared 2024 as the “China-DPRK Friendship Year,” as reported by China’s state-run news agency Xinhua. The acronym DPRK refers to North Korea’s official name.

Xinhua reported that Xi remarked on the new historical period of traditional friendly cooperation between China and North Korea, achieved through joint efforts. Under the current circumstances, the Chinese government and the Communist Party of China view their relationship with North Korea from a strategic and long-term perspective.

Xinhua further stated that it is China’s firm policy to maintain, strengthen, and develop the long-established friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries.