North Korea is commemorating the 80th anniversary of its ruling Workers’ Party on Friday, with significant participation from foreign dignitaries and leaders. The event underscores Pyongyang’s efforts to strengthen ties with key global allies, particularly China and Russia, both of which are sending high-level representatives. Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Pyongyang on Thursday, marking the highest-level visit by a Chinese leader since 2019. Li, a member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party’s Politburo and China’s second-highest-ranking official, has been increasingly active in representing China on the global stage, including at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Russia is represented by Dmitry Medvedev, former president and deputy head of the Security Council, reflecting the deepening cooperation between North Korea and Russia, particularly in the context of the Ukraine conflict. Vietnam’s top leader, Communist Party General Secretary To Lam, also arrived in Pyongyang, where he was welcomed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Additionally, Laos’ President Thongloun Sisoulith is attending the celebrations, further highlighting the event’s international significance. The anniversary serves as a platform for North Korea to showcase its diplomatic alliances and reinforce its position on the global stage, though specific details of the commemorative activities remain undisclosed.