China and North Korea are reportedly restoring ties after tension on Pyongyang's threat to test launch an intercontinental ballistic missile erupted.

The Chinese embassy in Pyongyang allegedly invited high-ranking officials from North Korea for a meeting to strengthen both countries' relations and cooperation, Yonhap TV reported on Monday citing a source. One of the more than 70 officials reported to attend include Kim Yong Dae, vice chairman of the standing committee of the Supreme People's Assembly.

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Although it is not clear which party initiated, China will be hosting the meeting. A source further noted that the high number of North Korean attendees indicates Pyongyang's intent to repair their relations.

Meanwhile, strategists from Chinese People's Liberation Army positioned North Korea as China's No. 2 threat next to the United States, according to Kyodo News.

The document, published last May, pointed "five potential threats" Beijing is facing. Topping the list is the United States and its "rebalance to Asia."

The document cited North Korea second as China sees Pyongyang a threat to its nuclear and military development. North Korea has not only declared itself a nuclear power but also established several nuclear plants near its China border. The document further warned that there is a "huge threat" to the northern and northeast parts of China should a war in the Korean Peninsula break out.

Japan landed third on the list because of the pressure on the disputed Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. Several fighter jets have been going to and fro the area. The South China Sea came in fourth as claims between China and other countries such as the Philippines and Vietnam overlap.

Finishing off the list is India, which has border tensions with China and is establishing military forces.

Tagschina, North Korea, Pyongyang, China and North Korea, intercontinental ballistic missile