In a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Kim Jong Un, the top leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), in the coastal city of Wonsan on Saturday. Lavrov described the relationship between Russia and the DPRK as an “invincible fighting brotherhood,” highlighting the deepening cooperation between the two nations.
The Russian Foreign Ministry quoted Lavrov as saying that his visit continues the “strategic dialogue” initiated by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to the DPRK last year. “These meetings always encourage the continued development of our relations, especially in the context of the agreements reached between you and President Putin,” Lavrov told Kim Jong Un.
Lavrov conveyed President Putin’s eagerness to engage in further direct communication with the DPRK leader in the near future. This meeting marks a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations and underscores the commitment to collaborate on shared interests.
Earlier in the day, Lavrov held talks with his DPRK counterpart, Choe Son Hui, during the second round of strategic dialogue between the foreign ministers of both countries. In his opening remarks, Lavrov praised the “heroic servicemen of the Korean People’s Army,” acknowledging their “exceptional bravery alongside Russian soldiers” in Russia’s Kursk Region.
“The discussions were substantive, focused, and productive,” Lavrov said, reflecting on his meeting with Choe. “We covered the full range of bilateral issues and addressed a broad spectrum of topics related to cultural and humanitarian cooperation.”
Lavrov’s arrival in Wonsan followed his participation in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. His visit to the DPRK signifies the latest high-level engagement as the two countries look to upgrade their strategic cooperation, including the development of a mutual defense pact.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko indicated that more high-level delegations are expected to visit the DPRK later this year, signaling a continued effort to strengthen ties and collaborate on mutual interests.
