The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Russia have taken their bilateral relations to a new level by signing the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Russian President Vladimir Putin's state visit to Pyongyang. The agreement, announced by state media KCNA, marks a significant milestone in DPRK-Russia relations.
The summit included a bilateral meeting and private discussions between President Putin and DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, the general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK. The visit featured a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square and a grand performance, highlighting the strong ties between the two nations.
In their joint statement, Kim Jong Un hailed the treaty as \"the most powerful treaty in the history of the DPRK-Russia relations,\" emphasizing the alliance's enhanced cooperation. President Putin described the treaty as an \"actual breakthrough document\" that elevates bilateral ties to a new level.
The treaty includes a mutual support clause, stating that both countries will support each other in the event of invasion. Additionally, Russia does not rule out military technical cooperation with the DPRK under the agreement, according to KCNA reports.
The leaders engaged in a \"tete-a-tete\" lasting over two hours, during which they reached a consensus on building a comprehensive strategic partnership, defending regional and global peace, and promoting international justice. The discussions also covered areas of immediate cooperation.
Prior to the private talks, senior officials from both countries held an extended bilateral meeting. Kim Jong Un praised President Putin's visit as strategically significant for developing good-neighborly relations and reiterated full support and solidarity with Russia regarding its special military operations in Ukraine.
In addition to the strategic treaty, the governments signed agreements on constructing a motorcar bridge over the River Tuman along their shared border and on bilateral cooperation in public health, medical education, and science.
The DPRK also awarded President Putin the Order of Kim Il Sung, the country’s highest medal of honor, and hosted a banquet in his honor. President Putin concluded his state visit and departed Pyongyang International Airport, attended by senior DPRK officials.
Reference(s):
DPRK, Russia sign comprehensive strategic partnership agreement: KCNA
cgtn.com
