Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, right, as a guest in North Korea. His stated intent is to build those ties further. During his visit, Lavrov engaged in high-level talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the eastern coastal city of Wonsan, marking a significant moment in the growing partnership between the two nations.
In a perhaps hopeful gesture of friendship, Kim Jong Un welcomed Lavrov to Pyongyang with an open-handed shake and warm embrace. The talks were said to focus on deepening military cooperation and mutual support, especially in context of Russia’s current war in Ukraine. Kim made no secret of his country’s eagerness to “unconditionally support” the most far-reaching actions that Moscow takes in pursuing its goals in Ukraine.
“Kim Jong Un reaffirmed the DPRK is ready to unconditionally support and encourage all the measures taken by the Russian leadership as regards the tackling of the root cause of the Ukrainian crisis,” – KCNA
The visit comes in the wake of a military agreement that Russia and North Korea inked late last year. This new pact reaffirms the 1954 mutual defense clause. A similar Indo-U.S subcontractor agreement has opened the door for even closer military collaboration. Most recently, North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops and arms to back Moscow’s military operations.
In an unusual strategic dialogue, Lavrov and Choe Son Hui met to confirm their countries’ partnership. They promised to further coordinate within the treaty to which they agreed last year. Beyond mutual defense, the treaty illustrates a deepening defense relationship between the two countries.
Lavrov made great play of Wonsan’s new status as a tourist destination and added that it would draw more Russian visitors. Russia recently indicated its intentions to begin twice-a-week flights between Moscow and Pyongyang. This attention-grabbing move will make added direct connections between the two countries possible before his arrival.
“I have firm belief that the Russian army and people would surely win victory in accomplishing the sacred cause of defending the dignity and basic interests of the country,” – KCNA
Lavrov’s visit is a clear signal of both sides’ robust commitment to persisting collaboration even amidst rising global tensions. Additionally, it points to the strategic concerns shared by Russia and North Korea. These collaborative actions are a clear indication of how the two countries want to work together to tackle transnational issues.
“I hope for continued direct contacts in the very near future,” – TASS (attributed to Sergey Lavrov, quoting Vladimir Putin)
