SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA: North Korea is celebrating the 70th anniversary of its self-proclaimed “Victory Day” this week with the arrival of invited delegates from Russia and China.
This exceptional move comes despite the border closures that have been in place since early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The historical significance of July 27, 1953, marks the signing of a long-negotiated armistice agreement that brought a pause to the Korean War. North Korea has always claimed that the 1950-1953 war was initiated by the US and South Korea, and it asserts that it emerged victorious, VoA reported on Wednesday.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu’s presence in Pyongyang has caught the attention of many, and his visit is being seen as a symbolic gesture of strengthening military ties between Russia and North Korea. The visit has also raised speculation about the possibility of Shoigu meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Russia’s Defense Ministry described the visit as a crucial step in developing cooperation between the two countries. Given past accusations of North Korea aiding Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, the visit has drawn the interest of analysts who are monitoring any potential implications on arms sales between Moscow and Pyongyang.
China is also participating in the anniversary celebrations with the visit of Li Hongzhong, the vice chairman of the Chinese National People’s Congress’ Standing Committee. This move is being viewed as a display of the significance both China and North Korea attach to their bilateral ties.
Amid these diplomatic exchanges, South Korea and the United States are closely observing the evolving relationship between Russia, China, and North Korea. Both countries have expressed hopes that Russia and China can play a positive role in encouraging North Korea to abandon “threatening, unlawful behaviour” and return to the negotiating table, aiming for peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula.
The ongoing celebrations are expected to culminate in a grand nighttime parade, showcasing North Korea’s military hardware, including the Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile. North Korea’s recent spate of ballistic missile tests has raised global concern, prompting discussions at the United Nations Security Council meetings where Russia and China have sided with North Korea.
As the celebrations continue, the eyes of the world remain on this exceptional gathering of delegates in Pyongyang, hoping that it might pave the way for dialogue and cooperation in the region. Amidst the ongoing border closures, these diplomatic exchanges offer a glimpse of engagement and engagement despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.
