Russian President Vladimir Putin began his two-day official visit to North Korea on July 19. Following negotiations between the Russian President and North Korean Chairman Kim Jong Un, the two leaders signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement.
Putin had described the agreement as a new fundamental document that “would form the basis of the long-term relationship” between the two countries, as reported by Sputnik. The agreement implies mutual assistance in case of aggression against signatories, Putin explained.
“Interaction between our countries is based on the principles of equality and mutual respect for each other’s interests,” Putin said in opening his talks with the North Korean leader. He added that both countries are fighting against the “hegemonic and imperialist policies of the U.S. and its satellite states.”
Putin expressed appreciation for North Korean support to Russia, adding that “I am very happy about our new meeting. I hope that the next one will be held in Russia, in Moscow,” Putin said.
For his part Kim said, “The government of North Korea appreciates the important mission and role of strong Russia in maintaining strategic stability and balance in the world” and expresses “full support and solidarity with the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect the sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity,” the North Korean leader said. “In this vein, we intend to further strengthen strategic communication with Russia,” he concluded.
AP reported: “North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961 that experts say necessitated Moscow’s military intervention if the North came under attack. The deal was discarded after the collapse of the U.S.S.R., replaced by one in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances. It wasn’t immediately clear if the new deal provides a similar level of protection as the 1961 treaty.
“From North Korea, Putin traveled to Vietnam, where he exited his plane onto a red carpet and briefly shook hands with dignitaries while soldiers in white dress uniforms stood at attention. In Hanoi, Putin is scheduled to meet with Vietnam’s most powerful politician, Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, and new President To Lam.”
