Vladimir Putin invited by Kim Jong-un to visit North Korea
According to the North Korean state news agency KCNA, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to visit North Korea after the invitation of its leader Kim Jong-un, during the latter’s trip to Russia during which the two statesmen held official discussions lasting approximately two hours
After a meeting on Wednesday, “Kim Jong-un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK [République populaire démocratique de Corée] when it suits him”KCNA reported Thursday, using North Korea’s official name. “Putin happily accepted the invitation and reaffirmed his unwavering desire to continue to advance the history and tradition of Russia-DPRK friendship”the agency further declared.
As a sign of the strengthening of their ties, Moscow offered Pyongyang to send a North Korean cosmonaut into space, according to Russian agencies. He would be the first North Korean to enter Earth orbit, as the reclusive country seeks to expand its space programs.
The Russian president toasted “future strengthening of cooperation” with Pyongyang, speaking to the press about “prospects” of military cooperation despite international sanctions targeting North Korea because of its nuclear programs and its missiles in development.
The North Korean leader assured Mr. Putin that Moscow would win a “great victory” on its enemies, Russia having been engaged in a war in Ukraine for more than a year and a half.
For the moment, nothing has been officially communicated regarding a possible agreement for deliveries of military equipment to Russia in order to support its offensive in Ukraine, as mentioned by Washington.
The North Korean leader said he was ready to work out a “plan for the next hundred years” in order to establish stable relationships and “looking towards the future”KCNA reported.
According to Mr. Putin, Kim Jong-un will also attend a “demonstration” of the Russian navy in the Pacific – a trip for which he did not specify the timing. North Korean leader also visits aircraft equipment factories in Far East “civilian and military”said the Russian head of state.