Seoul, July 12 — Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on Saturday during his visit to North Korea, marking a significant step in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang. The meeting took place in the coastal resort city of Wonsan, as confirmed by Russia’s Foreign Ministry via social media posts showing a warm greeting between the two leaders.
Lavrov’s visit, which extends until Sunday, will conclude with his travel to China for a foreign ministerial meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation member states, according to Yonhap news agency.
Earlier on Saturday, North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui and Lavrov held the second round of strategic talks in Wonsan, underscoring the growing cooperation between the two nations. Lavrov reaffirmed the close military and political ties, referencing the “invincible military brotherhood” described by Choe and highlighting North Korean troops’ historic collaboration with Russian forces during the Battle of Kursk.
Lavrov also expressed intentions to promote tourism by encouraging more Russian visitors to the newly opened Wonsan resort city through increased flight connectivity, as reported by Russian news agency TASS.
Choe emphasized North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, describing the bilateral relationship as “unbreakable.” She reiterated that Pyongyang’s strategic choice is to defend and consistently support Russia’s policies, signaling a firm alliance.
The visit follows the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed last June during a summit in Pyongyang between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un. Lavrov’s current trip builds on his last visit in June 2024, when he accompanied Putin to Pyongyang to formalize the agreement committing both nations to mutual support in the event of external aggression.
This ongoing engagement highlights Moscow and Pyongyang’s deepening cooperation amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
