In a significant move, North Korea hosted a delegation from Russia for talks aimed at enhancing regional economic cooperation, according to state media KCNA. The meeting involved North Korea’s External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong Ho and Oleg Kozhemyako, the governor of the Russian far eastern region of Primorsky. The discussions centered on elevating economic cooperation between the two nations to a higher level.
While the KCNA report confirmed that an agreement was signed by the trade and economic working groups of both countries, specific details about the agreement or the meeting were not disclosed. The talks were focused on fostering stronger economic ties and regional collaboration.
Oleg Kozhemyako, the governor of Primorsky, also known as Primorye, expressed his optimism about the visit, stating, “This is the first visit after a long break caused by the pandemic.” He highlighted the delegation’s program, which includes meetings to develop humanitarian ties in areas such as culture, tourism, and sports between Primorye and North Korea.
In November, Governor Kozhemyako mentioned the possibility of providing part of Primorsky’s agricultural land for farming by North Korean farmers. This hints at potential collaboration in the agricultural sector, contributing to economic cooperation between the two nations.
The recent meeting is part of a series of bilateral engagements between North Korea and Russia since North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia in September, where he met President Vladimir Putin to discuss deepening military cooperation. The ongoing exchanges demonstrate a commitment to strengthening ties in various sectors.
The discussions between North Korea and Russia occur against the backdrop of South Korea’s spy agency suggesting signs of North Korea deploying workers to Russia. Such deployments could potentially violate U.N. Security Council sanctions aimed at curbing North Korea’s weapons programs. However, the details surrounding this development remain to be clarified.
North Korea’s slow post-pandemic reopening has prompted engagements with several nations, allowing Chinese and Russian government delegations to visit. This includes the resumption of Air Koryo flights between Pyongyang and the northeastern Chinese city of Shenyang, after nearly four years.
Governor Kozhemyako revealed that a North Korean delegation is expected to visit Primorsky in mid-December. The agenda includes discussions with officials from North Korea’s Rason city, bordering Russia. Additionally, Russia’s growing isolation over its war in Ukraine has led to forging closer ties with North Korea, evident in recent diplomatic and cultural exchanges.
The talks between North Korea and Russia signify a concerted effort to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen diplomatic ties. While challenges persist, both nations appear committed to exploring opportunities for collaboration in various sectors, contributing to regional stability and mutual benefit. The ongoing engagements mark a positive step in the evolving relationship
