Pyongyang, North Korea
North Korea leader Kim Jong-un and Russia's Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, Alexander Kozlov, met in Pyongyang on Monday (Nov 18), as the two nations continue to deepen ties. State-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that discussions focused on "cooperation in trade, economy, science and technology."
In parallel, a delegation from a Russian military academy also arrived in the North Korean capital, although, as per AFP, their agenda was shrouded in secrecy.
These visits by Russian delegations come as both countries recently ratified a strategic partnership treaty.
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Russia-North Korea ties
During his meeting with Kozlov, Kim declared that ties between the two nations "have reached a new strategic level".
Noting the new treaty between his nation and Moscow, the North Korean leader said that the meeting with Kozlov was aimed at "further promoting" trade as well as "scientific and technological exchange."
North Korea and Ukraine War
Claims by the US and South Korea allege that North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops to bolster Russia's efforts in Ukraine, with analysts suggesting Pyongyang is leveraging the conflict to secure advanced weaponry and battlefield experience for its military.
Also read | North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties
Experts also suggest that North Korea may be recalibrating its foreign policy using the Ukraine conflict. While Russia Traditionally reliant on China, Pyongyang is now positioning itself as a key player in Moscow's wartime economy, supplying manpower, weapons, and potentially even labour.
Experts speculate that this evolving relationship may grant North Korea access to Russia's vast reserves of oil, gas, and other natural resources.
Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui recently reinforced this alliance during her visit to Moscow, vowing her country would "stand firmly by our Russian comrades until victory day" and labelling Russia's campaign in Ukraine a "sacred struggle".
(With inputs from agencies)