North Korean economic and public health delegations have embarked on visits to Russia, highlighting strengthened bilateral cooperation post-defense treaty with Russia. Meetings are expected to focus on economic collaboration and defense issues related to North Korea’s military support in the Ukraine conflict.
On Tuesday, state media announced that North Korean delegations focusing on economic and public health affairs have departed for Russia, indicating an ongoing collaboration between the two nations. The economic delegation, led by Yun Jong-ho, minister of external economic relations, left Pyongyang on Monday, with expectations of discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral economic ties.
This visit follows a recent meeting of the North Korea-Russia Economic Cooperation Committee held in November, where topics such as energy, agriculture, science and technology, public health, and tourism were reviewed. In conjunction, a separate public health delegation, under the leadership of Public Health Minister Chon Sol-ryong, departed for Russia the previous day to engage in similar dialogues.
Since the mutual defense treaty signed in June between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, relations between North Korea and Russia have expanded. Notably, North Korea has also sent thousands of troops to support Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Additionally, the Korean Central News Agency reported that a Russian foreign ministry delegation, headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, returned home on Monday after a visit to North Korea. Meetings were held with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui and Vice Foreign Minister Kim Jong-gyu, primarily focusing on defense issues amid a proposed U.S. cease-fire for the war.
In summary, the recent visits of North Korean delegations to Russia underscore a significant movement towards enhanced bilateral cooperation in various sectors, especially in economic and public health fields. The mutual interests following the defense treaty between North Korea and Russia reflect a strengthening of ties that could have wider regional implications. The discussions are poised to address critical issues such as diplomatic relations and support in military contexts.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
