North Korea declares 'invincible' partnership with Russia at 78-year diplomatic anniversary
North Korea hailed its ties with Russia as “invincible” during a reception marking 78 years of diplomatic relations, attended by Russian minister Alexander Kozlov and other officials.
The North Korean Embassy in Russia organized a reception on the 78th anniversary of diplomatic ties, during which state media described the relationship with Moscow as an “invincible comradeship.” Sin Hong-chol, North Korea’s ambassador to Russia, said the bond has reached an unprecedented level, citing the “most truthful” rapport between Kim Jong-un and President Vladimir Putin and a 2024 summit that elevated the partnership to a comprehensive strategic alliance.
Russian Minister of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov, who chairs the North Korea-Russia Intergovernmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy and Science, affirmed the June 2024 treaty, emphasizing shared commitment to respect, trust and common prosperity. The agreement also includes a mutual defence clause obligating both nations to assist each other if attacked. A separate reception hosted by Russian ambassador Andrey Podelyshev in Pyongyang marked the same anniversary, underscoring reciprocal diplomatic celebrations.
Why it matters
The deepening military and economic pact between North Korea and Russia could reshape security dynamics in East Asia and beyond.
How this story developed
- Oct 8 Seoul pulls its ambassador from Kyiv over disputed North Korean POW transfer
- Oct 12 North Korea fired several ballistic missiles toward the East Sea on Monday, with the Joint Chiefs of Staff reporting a flight distance of over 900 km.
- Oct 12 The missile launch occurred shortly after Seoul’s hypersonic glide‑vehicle test.
- Oct 13 North Korea announced a successful test of a tactical ballistic missile citing a technical component upgrade.
- Oct 13 South Korea’s ambassador returned to Seoul, confirming the recall.
- Oct 13 Defector Choi Min-kyeong secured a court award of 50 million won against Kim Jong-un for torture and sexual violence she endured in North Korea.
- Oct 18 Seoul announced that its aid to Kyiv will continue despite the ongoing diplomatic dispute.
- Oct 18 New reporting reveals large numbers of North Korean laborers at Russia’s Alabuga drone plant.
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