DPRK leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin

At an extended meeting afterward, Putin said they specifically discussed bilateral relations in the past and present and future prospect. They also mentioned issues on the Korean peninsula and what they should do to improve the situation. Kim said he came to Russia to discuss peaceful measures for nuclear issues on the Korean peninsula and how to improve bilateral ties in the new era.

At a public meeting early on Thursday, Putin congratulated Kim for his re-election to the highest position of the DPRK. He believed that Kim’s first visit to Russia will boost bilateral ties and make a step forward in resolving nuclear issue in the Korean peninsula. Putin told Kim that he appreciates Kim’s efforts to resolve the nuclear issues and normalize ties with the Republic of Korea and the US. He also spoke of potential to develop bilateral cooperation in economics, trade, culture, and humanitarian issues.