Exhibition looks to boost exchanges, people-to-people contact with DPRK

An exhibition showing people-to-people communication between China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea aims to further boost the friendship between the two nations, organizers said.

The art exhibition, which opened in Beijing on Tuesday, celebrates the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the nations, as well as commemorating DPRK top leader Kim Jong-un's visits to China.

The exhibit includes dozens of books and over 30 paintings and sculptures by renowned artists from the DPRK to illustrate the traditional friendship, mutual trust and people-to-people communication between China and the DPRK.

It also includes photos of three generations of the country's top leaders visiting China, from Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il to Kim Jong-un.

The exhibition continues until May 8 at the Mansudae Art Museum in the 798 Art District and is co-hosted by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the DPRK Committee for Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries.

Lin Yi, vice-president of the Chinese people's association for friendship, said the exhibition tells of the firm friendship between the two nations over 70 years.

She said Kim Jong-un's four visits to China in 10 months showed the great importance of Sino-DPRK relations in hopes that the two countries could further strengthen communication and jointly create a better future.

Kim made visits to China in March, May and June of 2018 and, most recently, in January.

Pak Kyong-il, vice-chairman of DPRK's committee for cultural relations, praised the contributions of elder generations of the two countries, adding that 2019 is meaningful for DPRK-China relations and Pyongyang will continue developing its relationship with Beijing.

Jong Hyon-u, charge d'affaires of the DPRK embassy in China, said he hoped to enhance communication and cooperation with China in areas such as political, economic and cultural fields. Jong also expressed hopes that China will continue with its achievements.