PYONGYANG: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reached Pyongyang after wrapping his much-anticipated visit to Russia for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, state media reported on Wednesday.
The North’s state Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Kim arrived back in Pyongyang on his private train after concluding trip to Russia.
Kin concludes Russia’s visit
Kim was welcomed by top party and government officials, including Premier Kim Tok-hun upon reaching Pyongyang Railway Station.
The North Korean leader, who left Pyongyang last Sunday, held a meeting with Putin on Wednesday at the Vostochny Cosmodrome spaceport in Amur Oblast.
During his week-long trip, Kim inspected a range of Russian defense installations, including space rockets and submarines. A symbolic exchange of rifles with President Putin was also took place during the trip.
Kim also extended his heartfelt appreciation to President Putin and the Russian leadership for their warm hospitality throughout his visit.
Historically, North Korea and Russia have maintained close relationship despite facing extensive sanctions—Moscow for its involvement in Ukraine and Pyongyang for its nuclear weapon tests.
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Kim’s visit underlined North Korea’s intention to boost ties with Russia, seeking assistance with satellite technology and modernizing its military apparatus. Russia is interested in North Korea’s artillery shells for use in the conflict in Ukraine.
KCNA described Kim’s visit as historic, showcasing the strengthening of “militant unity” and a promising “new chapter” in DPRK-Russia relations.
The North Korean leader extended an invitation to Putin to visit North Korea to further solidify diplomatic ties. Additionally, Putin offered to send a N. Korean national to space, potentially marking a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations.
