Xi's silence on North Korea's nuclear program came as Kim tried to convince the world of the irreversibility of his country's status as a nuclear power.

Earlier engagements between the two leaders continue to shape current diplomatic ties

A shift from pursuing denuclearization to merely managing or freezing the North’s nuclear program could amount to de facto recognition of its nuclear status.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is visiting North Korea to strengthen ties. This visit occurs as North Korea increases trade and military cooperation with Russia. China aims to…