China is reportedly demanding North Korea refrain from conducting a third nuclear test in exchange for lending permission to leader Kim Jong-un to visit the country.

According to Japanese media, North Korea has shown discontent at Beijing’s request, but Kim Jong-un has decided to delay the nuclear test to appease its biggest ally as part of a political quest.

The reports also cited sources as saying Pyongyang is in negotiations with China, to notify Beijing ahead of time in the case of a possible nuclear test.

North Korea alerted China of its impending nuclear tests in 2006 and 2009 just moments before they were conducted.

North Korea’s statement on June 9th that a nuclear test was being considered was deciphered by experts as not only a message to the United States but also China as well.