A top North Korean official has touted his country's traditional alliance with China as a "precious treasure" amid concerns over chilling ties due to the North's nuclear ambition.

Yang Hyong-sop, vice president of North Korea's Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly, made the remarks at a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Pyongyang Li Jinjun on Wednesday, according to a statement issued by the Chinese Embassy.

"The traditional friendship between North Korea and China, created by the older generations of leaders from both countries, is a precious treasure for both countries," Yang was quoted as telling Li.

Yang also told Li that he was "very happy" to meet with the Chinese ambassador, according to the statement.

In return, Li urged North Korea to carry forward the traditional friendship, while developing future-oriented relations.

The political ties between North Korea and China remain strained due to the North's defiant pursuit of nuclear weapons, but China still serves as the North's economic lifeline and diplomatic backer at the United Nations.

Since taking up office in March, the Chinese ambassador has held a series of meetings with North Korean officials, including North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Ri Gil-song and Minister of Foreign Trade Ri Ryong-nam.

Li has briefed the North Korean officials on China's ambitious Silk Road project aimed at reviving the ancient trade route between Asia and Europe.

With a $40 billion fund, China has aggressively pushed the so-called "One Belt, One Road" initiative aimed at building ports, expressways, railways and other infrastructure with its neighboring countries. (Yonhap)\