TLDR;
This video analyses Chinese Premier Li Chang's visit to North Korea, suggesting it was a diplomatic humiliation orchestrated by Kim Jong-un to send a message to Xi Jinping. It contrasts Li's submissive behaviour with Kim's warmer receptions of other leaders, and examines the geopolitical context behind Kim's actions, including China's relationship with North Korea, Russia, and the US. The video also touches on China's broader diplomatic challenges, including strained relations with the West and its stance on the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts.
- Li Chang's visit to North Korea was marked by perceived submissiveness and disrespect.
- Kim Jong-un's actions may have been a deliberate message to Xi Jinping.
- China faces broader diplomatic challenges and isolation on the global stage.
Li Chang's Humiliating Visit to North Korea [0:00]
Chinese Premier Li Chang's recent visit to Pyongyang to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Workers Party of Korea was seen as a major embarrassment for China. Li was observed bowing and nodding subserviently before Kim Jong-un, acting timid and submissive, a stark contrast to the CCP's usual "wolf warrior" diplomacy. This behaviour sparked widespread criticism and mockery online, with many noting Li's apparent nervousness and unease in Kim's presence.
Awkward Interactions and Stark Contrasts [0:53]
During the visit, Li Chang was overshadowed by Vietnamese Communist Party leader Tolam, with Kim Jong-un engaging warmly with Tolam while seemingly ignoring Li. Photos released by North Korean state media depicted Li and his delegation lined up like subordinates reporting to Kim, with no Chinese flag visible. The farewell scene was particularly striking, with Kim displaying a casual and dismissive attitude towards Li, who waved frantically as his car departed.
Comparisons to Past Visits and Geopolitical Analysis [4:44]
Observers contrasted Li Chang's treatment with the respectful receptions given to past CCP premiers during visits to North Korea. Some analysts believe Kim Jong-un's actions were a deliberate snub to Xi Jinping, reflecting displeasure that Xi did not personally attend the anniversary celebrations. Others suggest Kim's confidence stems from North Korea's geopolitical position as a bargaining chip between China, the US, and Russia.
Kim Jong-un's Diplomatic Calculus and China's Internal Politics [6:54]
Kim Jong-un's different treatment of leaders from Russia and Vietnam highlighted his strategic approach to diplomacy. Some commentators argue that Kim understands China's political situation well and views Li Chang as a mere servant of Xi Jinping. Rumours of Xi Jinping's weakening authority within the CCP have also fuelled speculation that Kim's actions reflect a declining fear of offending Xi.
China's Broader Diplomatic Setbacks [11:56]
The video also touches on China's broader diplomatic challenges, including the limited attendance at the Global Women's Summit in Beijing and its exclusion from Trump's Middle East peace conference in Egypt. China's foreign policy choices, such as its stance on the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts, have placed it at odds with much of the international community. Trump is reportedly planning to impose tariffs as high as 500% on Chinese imports.