Did Putin Invite North Korea's Kim to Russia During Their Meeting in Beijing?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Putin invited Kim Jong-un to visit Russia again, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts.
- The two leaders emphasized their military cooperation amid the Ukraine conflict.
- North Korea has deployed approximately 13,000 troops to support Russia.
- Both nations are committed to a mutual defense pact established last year.
- The relationship is evolving as they navigate global tensions.
Seoul, Sep 3 (NationPress) Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday extended an invitation to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to visit Russia once more, according to a Russian source, during their bilateral discussions held on the sidelines of a military parade in Beijing.
The two leaders convened at the Diaoyutai state guest house after attending a military parade at Tiananmen Square in Beijing, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II in 1945, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
As Putin accompanied Kim to his car following their meeting, the North Korean leader remarked, 'See you soon,' to which Putin responded by stating he would be 'waiting,' urging him to 'Please come,' according to Russia's Tass news agency.
Kim has made two visits to Russia thus far, in 2019 and 2023, for discussions with Putin.
During their talks, Kim expressed gratitude to Putin for acknowledging the North's troops stationed in Russia to support Moscow's efforts in the ongoing war against Ukraine.
Putin stated he would 'never forget' the contributions of North Korean soldiers who fought 'bravely and heroically' in Russia's frontline region of Kursk amid the Ukraine conflict.
In turn, Kim appreciated Putin's commendation of his troops assisting Russia and emphasized that the North views it as a 'brotherly duty' to aid Moscow.
Kim pointed out that the relationship between their nations has strengthened in all facets since they signed a strategic partnership treaty in June of last year, which included a mutual defense agreement to provide immediate military support in the event either nation faces armed aggression.
He vowed to do 'everything possible' to assist Russia.
This meeting occurs amidst growing collaboration between North Korea and Russia across multiple sectors, particularly concerning the North's deployment of troops to bolster Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.
Since October of the previous year, North Korea has dispatched approximately 13,000 troops and conventional weaponry to aid Russia's military operations.