North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed his commitment to closer relations with Russia in a message to President Vladimir Putin as North Korea marked the 81st anniversary of its liberation from Japanese colonial rule.
Kim was responding to Putin’s congratulatory message for the August 15 anniversary. Putin highlighted the historical connection between the two countries, recalling Soviet forces’ fight against Japan and expressing support for continued cooperation.
Kim expressed hope that bilateral ties would continue to build on their shared history and said they had “carried forward the history of common struggle for justice and precious traditions of friendship”.
Relations between Pyongyang and Moscow have strengthened as North Korea has provided troops and weapons to support Russia’s war against Ukraine. Russian ship Pallada also arrived at Wonsan port for a goodwill visit linked to the anniversary.
Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for dialogue with North Korea, urging steps towards peaceful coexistence and a formal peace arrangement to replace the existing armistice.
Pyongyang has rejected his proposals and criticised US-South Korean military drills.
