Are North Korea and Russia Reinforcing Their Diplomatic Ties?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened diplomatic ties between North Korea and Russia.
- Emphasis on military cooperation amidst geopolitical tensions.
- Plans to boost Russian tourism to North Korea.
- Recognition of an unbreakable partnership between the two nations.
- Significant implications for regional stability.
Washington, July 12 (NationPress) North Korea and Russia have strengthened their ties during a meeting held on Saturday between their leading diplomats at a scenic resort city along the North Korean coast, as reported by various Russian news outlets.
North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui engaged with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Wonsan, marking the second round of strategic discussions following Lavrov's arrival in the city, which recently opened a tourist zone, according to TASS.
In his opening statements, Lavrov reiterated Choe's previous characterization of their bilateral relationship as an “invincible military brotherhood,” referencing the North Korean forces that fought alongside Russian troops against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region.
He also expressed his commitment to facilitating greater tourist influx from Russia to the resort city, including plans to enhance flight services, as reported by TASS.
Choe echoed her nation’s unwavering support for Russia, asserting that their partnership has reached an “unbreakable” status.
“The strategic choice and resolve of the DPRK government is to unconditionally and consistently support Russia's policies aimed at safeguarding state sovereignty and territorial integrity,”
she stated, as quoted by TASS.
DPRK refers to North Korea’s official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Lavrov's visit is set to continue until Sunday, when he plans to travel to China to participate in a foreign ministerial meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation member countries, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
This visit is part of a broader strengthening of ties between Moscow and Pyongyang, which began after Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un established a “comprehensive strategic partnership” agreement during their summit in Pyongyang last June.
Lavrov made his last visit to North Korea in June 2024, accompanying President Putin for discussions with Kim in Pyongyang. During that encounter, they formalized a strategic partnership agreement pledging mutual support in the face of aggression.