Kim Jong-un and Alexander Lukashenko Forge New Friendship Treaty in Pyongyang
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Seoul, March 27 (NationPress) In a significant diplomatic move, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un engaged in summit discussions with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Pyongyang, culminating in the signing of a treaty focused on friendship and cooperation, as reported by the North's state media on Friday.
During his two-day official visit to North Korea at Kim's invitation, Lukashenko, closely allied with Russian President Vladimir Putin, indicated that the relationship between Pyongyang and Minsk has reached a "new stage."
Both leaders also formalized several agreements covering various sectors, including diplomacy, agriculture, and public health, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The KCNA reported that the leaders expressed optimism regarding the future expansion and development of their collaboration in ways beneficial to their citizens.
Earlier, on March 26, Kim Jong-un warmly welcomed Lukashenko in Pyongyang as part of the Belarusian leader's inaugural official visit to the North.
A ceremonial welcome for Lukashenko took place at Kim Il Sung Square on Wednesday, coinciding with his arrival via a private aircraft for the two-day visit, as noted by KCNA.
Both North Korea and Belarus have shown support for Russia during its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, with Pyongyang reportedly sending military personnel and armaments, while Minsk has permitted Moscow to utilize its territory for the conflict.
During the visit, accompanied by Kim, Lukashenko laid a wreath at the Liberation Tower in Pyongyang, which commemorates Soviet soldiers claimed by the North to have lost their lives aiding in the liberation of Korea from Japanese colonial rule from 1910 to 1945. The two leaders also observed a moment of silence to honor the deceased soldiers.
Lukashenko's delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Shuleiko and various ministers overseeing foreign affairs, public health, education, and industry.