A high-ranking North Korean official led a delegation to China and met foreign minister Wang Yi, among other officials, state media announced Monday.

Kim Song Nam, director of the Central Committee’s international department in the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK), met Wang in Beijing on Thursday, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

State media reported that Kim emphasized the importance of strong bilateral relations between North Korea and China and the continuation of various exchange and cooperation projects.

North Korea and China will endure challenges and advance together, Wang reportedly told Kim. He also reaffirmed China’s commitment to