Did Russia's Resources Minister Just Strengthen Ties with North Korea on the First Direct Flight?
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Synopsis
In a historic development, Russia's Natural Resources Minister, Alexander Kozlov, has visited North Korea aboard the first direct flight between Moscow and Pyongyang. This visit aims to cultivate trade and technological cooperation, marking a significant step in bilateral relations. Discover the details of this evolving partnership and what it means for both nations.
Key Takeaways
- First direct flight from Moscow to Pyongyang since the mid-1990s.
- Focus on strengthening trade and technology cooperation.
- Meetings included high-level discussions between ministers.
- Celebration of resumed air travel indicates improving relations.
- Nordwind Airlines to operate monthly flights.
Seoul, July 29 (NationPress) The Minister of Natural Resources from Russia has embarked on a visit to North Korea for discussions focused on trade and technological partnerships. This journey coincides with the inaugural flight of the reestablished direct air link between Moscow and Pyongyang, as reported by state media on Tuesday.
During this visit, Yun Jong-ho, North Korea's Minister for External Economic Relations, engaged in talks with Alexander Kozlov, Russia's Natural Resources Minister, in Pyongyang on Monday, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The report from KCNA indicated that Yun and Kozlov are leaders of the North Korean and Russian factions of the Intergovernmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, and Science and Technology.
They reviewed the implementation of a protocol that was ratified by the committee in November of last year during their meeting on Monday.
Additionally, separate sector-specific working committee meetings were conducted to enhance collaboration, complemented by a welcoming reception organized by the North Korean ministerial team, as noted by KCNA.
On the same day, Premier Pak Thae-song welcomed Kozlov for a courtesy meeting, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Kozlov and his delegation utilized a Nordwind Airlines flight for their journey to North Korea, marking the first direct flight service from Moscow to Pyongyang.
The aircraft took off from Sheremetyevo Airport in Moscow on Sunday evening and landed in the North Korean capital on Monday, signifying the first regular air connection between these two capitals since the mid-1990s.
North Korea subsequently organized an event to commemorate the resumption of the direct Moscow-Pyongyang route, with Kozlov emphasizing the progress made in bilateral cooperation regarding transportation and traffic.
During the event, Yun remarked, 'This is yet another unmistakable indication of our rapidly developing bilateral friendship.'
For the time being, Nordwind plans to operate this direct flight on a monthly basis to effectively manage the demand for this route.
Point of View
This visit by Russia's Natural Resources Minister signals a noteworthy shift in diplomatic relations between Russia and North Korea. The efforts to strengthen trade and technology partnerships reflect a strategic move that could yield benefits for both nations amidst global geopolitical shifts.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the Russian Minister's visit to North Korea?
The visit was aimed at discussing trade and technology cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
What flight service marked this visit?
This visit was marked by the first direct flight between Moscow and Pyongyang in decades.
Who did Alexander Kozlov meet during his visit?
He met with North Korea's External Economic Relations Minister, Yun Jong-ho.
How often will the direct flight service operate?
Nordwind Airlines plans to operate the direct flight once a month for the foreseeable future.
What was discussed during the meetings?
They discussed the implementation of a protocol signed in November last year and held sector-specific meetings for cooperation.
