Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an article published in North Korean state media ahead of his arrival later Tuesday that Moscow and Pyongyang will jointly circumvent international sanctions by deepening bilateral economic and trade cooperation.
In the article published on the front page of the Rodong Sinmun, North Korea’s official newspaper, the Russian leader said the two countries will develop alternative systems of trade and mutual settlements that are “not controlled by the West” and jointly resist “unilateral and illegal measures.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Kyodo)
Putin is set to start a two-day state visit to North Korea on Tuesday, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. It will be his first trip to the country in 24 years.
Western countries have imposed sanctions on Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine it launched in February 2022, while North Korea is under United Nations sanctions for its nuclear and missile development programs.
KCNA on Tuesday reported that Putin expressed appreciation for North Korea’s firm support for Russia’s war against Ukraine, saying Pyongyang shows “solidarity with us on major international issues” and maintains a common stance at the U.N.
Pyongyang is willing to resolutely oppose the ambition of the “Western group” to hinder the establishment of a multi-polarized world order based on mutual respect for justice and sovereignty, Putin said. The president also called for elevating “bilateral cooperation onto a higher level with our joint efforts.”
During a summit meeting on Wednesday, Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un are expected to discuss military and other cooperation. The two could sign a treaty on a bilateral strategic partnership, Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov said.
Pyongyang has been accused of providing arms to Moscow and Ukraine said in January that Moscow used North Korean KN-23 ballistic missiles in its assaults.
Russia is suspected of assisting and guiding North Korea in its bid to launch military spy satellites.
In September last year, Putin met Kim at the Vostochny Cosmodrome space launch center in the Russian Far East. At the time, Kim invited Putin to visit his country, according to KCNA.
Related coverage:
Putin to make 2-day visit to North Korea from June 18 for talks with Kim
FOCUS: China’s no-show at Ukraine confab dims outlook for early end of war
Japan PM calls for global efforts to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine
Post a Comment