North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sent a congratulatory New Year’s letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, reaffirming his commitment to close cooperation between North Korea and Russia in the coming year.
The state-run newspaper, Rodong Sinmun reported on Tuesday that Kim sent “warm New Year’s greetings to his closest friend and comrade, Putin, as well as heartfelt blessings on behalf of himself, the North Korean people, and all the servicemen of the Republic’s armed forces to the fraternal Russian people and the valiant soldiers of the Russian military.”
Kim expressed his willingness to design and vigorously implement new initiatives based on the most sincere and fervent comradely trust. These initiatives aim to further the two countries’ aspirations as powerful nations and promote the well-being and prosperity of their peoples, thereby strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia.
He went on to express hope that the year 2025 would be recorded as a year of great victory in the 21st century, with the Russian military and people triumphing over neo-Nazism. Kim also conveyed his wishes for Russia’s prosperity, welfare, and happiness.
Since signing a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty in June, Russia and North Korea have strengthened their exchanges and cooperation in various sectors, including military collaboration. The year 2025 holds particular significance, as it marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of North Korea’s Workers’ Party and the 80th anniversary of the Russian Victory Day Parade in Moscow. Kim’s potential visit to Russia during this commemorative year has drawn significant attention.