What is the China-North Korea Treaty?

This year marks the 65th anniversary of the Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between China and North Korea.

Signed in 1961, it is considered China's only legally binding defence pact with any country, and demonstrates Beijing's commitment to and influence on Pyongyang.

Article 2 of the Treaty stated that "in the event of one of the contracting parties being subjected to the armed attack by any state or several states jointly and thus being involved in a state of war, the other contracting party shall immediately render military and other assistance by all means at its disposal."

Although the China-North Korea relationship has waxed and waned over time, both countries have continued to keep the Treaty in force, with the last renewal taking place in 2021.

However, North Korea also signed a similar pact with Russia in June 2024, which soured Beijing's relations with Pyongyang.

-BBC