Wu passed on the congratulations of Chinese President Hu Jintao, who also hailed the completion of a joint Chinese-North Korean glass works as “a monumental step in the name of our two countries’ friendship." Hu said it was his government’s “resolute, and unshakeable aim to solidify and further develop the amicable relationship between” the two countries.

Kim said the Taehan Friendship Glass Factory, “built with the support of China, is more proof of the Chinese government and people's friendly feelings towards North Korea", according to Xinhua. “I'm satisfied that, even as circumstances change, the relations between North Korea and China have steadily progressed on the basis of the common understanding set forth with President Hu Jintao upon my visit to China last year."

The Chinese delegation, which also includes Commerce Minister Bo Xilai, met with North Korean Premier Pak Bong-ju at the Mansudae Assembly Hall to discuss strengthening economic ties and expanding Chinese investment in the North.

(englishnews@chosun.com )