Putin: Developing Russia-North Korea ties in line with regional security

(Patria) - The development of bilateral relations between Russia and North Korea in all directions is in line with ensuring the security and stability of the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia, Russian President Vladimir Putin wrote in a congratulatory message to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Republic, Tass reported.

„I am confident that through joint efforts we will continue to systematically develop bilateral relations in all directions. This fully meets the interests of our peoples and is in line with ensuring security and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia,“ the North Korean state radio Voice of Korea reported excerpts from Putin's message.

Putin also noted that the Soviet Union was the first to recognize the new sovereign state.

„Since then, relations between our countries have always been based on the principles of friendship, good neighborliness and mutual respect. Significant experience of constructive cooperation in various fields has been gained,“ Putin said.

Putin wished Kim Jong-un „good health and success, and all citizens of North Korea peace and prosperity.“
On September 9, North Korea celebrates the 75th anniversary of Independence Day.

In recent weeks, relations between Moscow and Pyongyang have become increasingly cordial, after years of distancing and even the imposition of sanctions on North Korea.