(VOVWORLD) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russia's defence minister discussed practical issues to boost military cooperation, state media said on Sunday, in what Pyongyang called a fresh heyday for bilateral relations.
 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un walks with Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, as he visits Vladivostok, Russia, September 16, 2023. (Photo: KCNA via REUTERS Acquire Licensing Rights) |
During his visit to Russia, Mr. Kim inspected Russian nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles and warships on Saturday, accompanied by Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Kim and Shoigu “exchanged their constructive opinions on the practical issues arising in further strengthening the strategic and tactical coordination, cooperation and mutual exchange between the armed forces of the two countries and in the fields of their national defence and security,” North Korean state news agency KCNA said on Sunday.
The North Korean leader met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday and discussed military matters, Ukraine issues, and deepening cooperation.
Mr. Kim also toured Russia’s Pacific Sea Fleet, equipped with strategic nuclear submarines among other military vessels, KCNA said, quoting him as praising the fleet for its contribution to peace in the region.
The trip marks “a fresh heyday of friendship and solidarity and cooperation is being opened up in the history of the development of the relations between the DPRK and Russia,” KCNA said.