Pyongyang: North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui has announced plans to enhance strategic and tactical cooperation with Russia, describing the bilateral relationship as developing with "unprecedented width and depth," as reported by state media.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Choe delivered these remarks during a speech at a reception hosted by the Russian Embassy in North Korea. The event marked the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations between North Korea and Russia. The foreign minister highlighted the growth of bilateral ties since the signing of a mutual defense treaty in June last year.
Choe emphasized North Korea's commitment to advancing the comprehensive development of its relations with Russia and strengthening strategic and tactical cooperation. The two countries have been expanding cooperation, particularly in military areas, with North Korea reportedly sending troops and ammunition to support Russia's conflict with Ukraine.
Russian Ambassador to North Korea, Alexandr Matsegora, also spoke at the reception, noting that Pyongyang-Moscow relations have reached the level of a strategic partnership and alliance. Matsegora highlighted the participation of North Korean troops in a recent military parade in Pyongyang, where they marched with the national flags of both nations, and emphasized Russia's recognition of their contributions.
Diplomatic relations between North Korea and the former Soviet Union were established on October 12, 1948. Choe's attendance at the Russian Embassy's reception for the second consecutive year underscores the significance of this anniversary.