North Korea is the first stop on Xi's first overseas trip since taking office earlier this year. He is also scheduled to visit Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Yemen.

Kim once again expressed condolences over the loss of life in the severe earthquake in China's Sichuan province. He praised the courageous deeds of the CPC, the Chinese government, the armed forces and the people of China during the rescue mission.

Kim Jong Il (2nd R Front), top leader of North Korea, and visiting Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping (2nd L Front) walk to the meeting hall in Pyongyang, June 18, 2008. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei) 

Their work fully demonstrated the advantages of the socialist system with Chinese characteristics, said Kim.

He expressed the belief that under the strong leadership of the CPC and the Chinese government, the Chinese people will definitely be able to overcome the aftermath of the earthquake and successfully rebuild the quake-affected areas.

He also wished the Beijing Olympic Games all success.

Following the devastating earthquake of May 12, the WPK, North Korean government and the people of the country expressed condolences to China in various forms, and also provided relief assistance, Xi said.