President Xi Jinping's visit to North Korea aims to reaffirm China's role as a vital ally and supporter of Pyongyang's economy. The trip occurs as denuclearisation efforts on the Korean peninsula face increasing challenges.

President Xi Jinping is heading to North Korea on Monday with the aim of proving that China remains the best prospect for reviving his host country’s economy. The visit, Xi’s first in seven years, will focus on reinforcing ties with Pyongyang at a time when the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula appears increasingly out of reach, according to analysts. The carefully timed sequence of diplomatic meetings also reflects Beijing’s growing confidence on the world stage and its ability to engage...