Chinese, Russian Officials to Join North Korean Commemorations

Both Russia and China are sending government delegations to North Korea for marking the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice

The visits suggest North Korea is opening up after years of isolation and is eager to showcase its partnerships with neighbors in the face of tensions with Washington, Seoul and Tokyo.

A Russian delegation led by Defense Minister Shoigu will make a visit for the anniversary of North Korea's armistice, which was a victory in the “Fatherland Liberation War”

Shoigu said the delegation’s visit will strengthen relations and mark “an important stage” in the development of bilateral cooperation.

China is also sending official, Li Hongzhong, in restoring exchanges between the allies. Li is a member of the high-level Politburo and deputy chairperson of ceremonial parliament.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Mao Ning said “The visit will be conducive to promoting the development of bilateral relations, contributing to stability, and creating conditions for a political settlement of the Korean peninsula issue”

China remains North Korea's most important economic and political ally.