North Korean Economic and Public Health Delegations Visit Russia for Enhanced Cooperation
North Korean delegations focusing on economy and public health recently visited Russia, signaling active cooperation between the two nations. Led by key ministers, these delegations aim to discuss economic partnerships, building on previous cooperative efforts. Enhanced relations are noted since a mutual defense treaty signing, alongside North Korea’s troop support for Russia in the ongoing war against Ukraine. Recently, a Russian delegation also returned from North Korea after addressing defense matters.
Recent reports from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) indicate that North Korean delegations focusing on economic and public health matters have departed for Russia. This development marks a continuation of robust bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The economic delegation, led by Yun Jong-ho, North Korea’s minister of external economic relations, left Pyongyang on Monday, although the specific objectives of their visit remain undisclosed.
The visit likely aims at enhancing economic collaboration, following a recent meeting of the North Korea-Russia economy cooperation committee in November, which had addressed cooperation in areas such as energy, agriculture, science and technology, public health, and tourism. Additionally, a public health delegation, headed by Public Health Minister Chon Sol-ryong, also departed for Russia a day earlier.
The strengthening of ties between North Korea and Russia has accelerated since the signing of a mutual defense treaty in June between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin. Reports note that North Korea has deployed a substantial number of troops to support Russia during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In related developments, a Russian foreign ministry delegation, led by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, concluded its visit to North Korea on Monday, where it engaged in discussions with notable North Korean officials regarding defense issues amid a U.S.-proposed cease-fire for the war.
In conclusion, the recent visits of North Korean economic and public health delegations to Russia underscore a significant enhancement in bilateral relations. The expected discussions on economic cooperation, as well as defense matters concerning troop deployments, indicate a strategic partnership that is likely to develop further in the wake of recent treaties and ongoing international conflicts.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
