Leaders Kim and Putin initiate talks, marked by formal proceedings, in Pyongyang.
Evening before, Kim welcomed Putin at the airport, as the internationally secluded leaders of their respective states embraced on the red carpet, affirming the growing closeness of their countries' relationship.
Putin's second visit to this country, since becoming Russia's President in 2000, marks a notable occasion. During his initial tenure, he visited Kim Jong Il of North Korea in North Korea itself – a seldom-visited nation in diplomatic circles. The isolated state is alleged to have been providing military support to Russia in Ukraine, supplying weapons. North Korea, however, has vehemently denied these accusations as "absurd". Amidst these allegations, Putin is on a mission to acquire more ammo. Kim and Putin previously met in September, during Kim's trip to Russia's Far East.
Putin's visit symbolizes the "invincibility and endurance" of the bilateral relationships between the two nations, as reported by the state North Korean news agency KCNA. Accompanied by a substantial delegation, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Putin is making his journey to Vietnam following his visit to North Korea.
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- News agencies reported that during Putin's visit, he and Kim Jong-un discussed potential strategic partnerships between Russia and North Korea.
- Interfax and RIA Novosti, two major Russian news agencies, reported on the ceremony where Putin and Kim exchanged gifts, symbolizing their strong relationship.
- In a meeting with senior North Korean officials and men dressed in military uniforms, Putin reiterated Russia's support for North Korea's sovereignty, as mentioned in RIA Novosti's latest report.
- Putin's visit to Pyongyang came days after the UN Security Council condemned North Korea's latest missile tests, causing tensions between the two countries to rise.
- Despite the current political climate between Russia and the international community over Ukraine, Putin expressed his desire to improve relations with Kim Jong-un and North Korea in an exclusive interview with a North Korean news agency.
- Amongst the high-ranking delegation accompanying Putin to Pyongyang, there was alsoла Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who is expected to discuss the situation in Ukraine with his North Korean counterpart.
- Following the conclusion of Putin's meeting with Kim Jong-un, Putin will head to Vietnam for strategic talks, further solidifying Russia's role in the region and strengthening its alliances with key countries.
