North Korea calls for deeper ties with Russia amid global tensions
North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, called for "broader and more diverse" cooperation with Russia during discussions with the Russian Minister of Natural Resources, Alexander Kozlov.
The meeting took place on Monday during a visit by the Russian delegation, which "emphasises the strengthening of ties between the two countries," according to the KCNA agency. Kim met Russian representatives at the 11th session of the intergovernmental committee for cooperation in trade, economy, science, and technology.
"New strategic level"
As noted by the North Korean agency, the leader of North Korea underscored the significance of enhancing "prosperity and development" through "further promoting intergovernmental trade, economic, scientific, and technological exchange and cooperation."
Kim added that relations based on friendship and cooperation have reached a "new strategic level."
According to state media, the North Korean delegation from the Military Academy of the Russian Army's General Staff arrived in Pyongyang the same day. Simultaneously, a Korean delegation from the municipal council committee set off for Russia.
North Korea and Russia have been intensifying cooperation in various fields, particularly in military matters, since Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a new partnership treaty in Pyongyang in June, which includes mutual defence.
Meanwhile, in another announcement, KCNA urged caution regarding the initiative by South Korea, the USA, and Japan to establish a "secretariat" for trilateral cooperation. This was announced during their recent meeting at the APEC summit in Peru.
