Kim Jong Un, the General Secretary of North Korea’s Workers’ Party, sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, marking Russia’s national holiday, Russia Day. Kim emphasized the strengthening alliance between North Korea and Russia, expressing support for all of Russia’s domestic and foreign policies.
The Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, published the full text of this congratulatory message on its front page on Friday. Kim referred to President Putin as a dear friend and extended warm congratulations on Russia’s national holiday. Russia Day commemorates the establishment of the Russian Federation following the Soviet Union’s dissolution.
Kim stated that today, the relationship between North Korea and Russia is opening a new chapter in history, further strengthening the genuine and devoted comradeship and alliance.
He added that this is a commendable achievement gained by faithfully adhering to the principles and obligations of the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, proving that the choice has been justified.
Furthermore, Kim declared that it is his unwavering intention and the stance of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s government to thoroughly support Moscow’s domestic and foreign policies and to always stand with the Russian Federation.
In his letter, Kim addressed President Putin using respectful terms such as respected and dear.
The previous night, the Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim had sent a congratulatory message to Putin. However, North Korea’s Ambassador to Russia, Shin Hong-chol, only revealed that he delivered the message to a Russian Foreign Ministry official without disclosing its specific content.
Additionally, Rodong Sinmun reported that the Russian Embassy in North Korea hosted a banquet at the Daedonggang Diplomatic Club the previous night. Attendees included Vladimir Topeha, the acting Russian ambassador, and from the North Korean side, Yun Jong-ho, the Minister of Foreign Economic Affairs, An Hyun-min, Deputy Head of the Party’s Central Committee, and Kim Jong-gyu, Deputy Foreign Minister.
The newspaper noted that participants raised their glasses to the health of the two leaders and the strengthening and development of the traditional friendly cooperative relationship between the two peoples. It also mentioned that the Russian consulate in Chongjin had previously held a banquet to celebrate the national holiday.