5 months ago
27
During a state visit by Russian President
Vladimir Putin
to Pyongyang on Wednesday, North Korean leader
Kim Jong Un
expressed his country's unwavering support for
Russia's military actions
in Ukraine.
Kim, as quoted by Russian news agencies, vowed his country's “full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity.”
Putin's trip to Pyongyang has raised concerns about a potential arms deal, in which
North Korea
would supply Russia with much-needed munitions for its ongoing war in Ukraine, in return for economic aid and technology transfers that could bolster the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile program.
Kim also praised Russia's "important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world," highlighting the need to strengthen strategic interaction between the two nations in light of the rapidly changing global situation.
Russia-North Korea sign strategic partnership treaty
According to Russian state media, Putin and Kim signed a "strategic partnership treaty" following their discussions in Pyongyang. Earlier, Putin had indicated that the two countries had prepared a document that would serve as the foundation for their future relations, but did not provide further details. The treaty is set to replace previous bilateral documents and declarations signed in 1961, 2000, and 2001.
The leaders also exchanged gifts during the visit, with Kim receiving a tea set and a luxury Russian-made Aurus car, while the nature of Putin's gifts, hinted to be related to his image, including busts, was not disclosed.
The strengthening ties between Moscow and Pyongyang have raised concerns in the West, as it is believed that Russia has been acquiring and utilizing North Korean weaponry in its military offensive in Ukraine. Both North Korea and Russia are currently facing economic sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council and the United States and its Western partners, respectively.
North Korean state media portrayed the meeting between the leaders as a historic event, demonstrating the "invincibility and durability" of the two nations' friendship and unity. Large crowds gathered along the streets to welcome Putin's motorcade before the talks, chanting "Welcome Putin" and waving flowers, as well as North Korean and Russian flags.
Putin, who last visited North Korea 24 years ago, also praised the "close friendship" between the two countries, which he said was based on "equality and respect of mutual interests." He further noted their shared struggle against the "imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation."
(With agency inputs)
