On Tuesday, North Korean and Russian news agencies announced the signing of a cooperation agreement aimed at jointly combating the spread of misinformation. This move appears to be part of a broader effort to strengthen collaboration in propaganda and public messaging as the two nations deepen their ties.
The Russian Embassy in Pyongyang reported that the agreement was finalized during a visit by a delegation led by Andrei Kondrashov, head of Russia’s state news agency TASS. Kim Pyong-ho, president of the Korean Central News Agency, represented North Korea in the discussions.
Kondrashov emphasized that the agreement’s primary focus is on coordinating efforts between intelligence agencies to counter the dissemination of fake news and disinformation about both Russia and North Korea.
According to TASS, the agreement aims to develop information exchange projects, facilitate delegation visits, and enhance cooperation, including multilateral collaborations. The accord particularly emphasizes joint efforts to combat the creation and spread of false information and to debunk fake news across various platforms, including through international organizations.
During the signing ceremony, Kondrashov stated that today’s media landscape has become a battleground for intense information warfare. He noted that few countries face the sheer volume of disinformation that North Korea and Russia encounter daily, underscoring the necessity of a concerted effort against fake news.
Kim remarked that the ongoing relationship between the two news agencies contributes to the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea. He emphasized the crucial role both organizations play in fostering bilateral relations and enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the two nations.
Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of North Korea’s Workers’ Party, reported that Jo Yong-won, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly, and Choe Son-hui, North Korea’s foreign minister, met with the TASS delegation on the same day. The meetings reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the comprehensive strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia.
During these discussions, Kondrashov reiterated his commitment to faithfully implement the agreements between their respective news agencies, in line with the spirit of the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty between the two countries.
