Russian President Vladimir Putin said on the 19th that he highly values his friendly relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
According to Russia's TASS news agency and other outlets, Putin held talks with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui at the Kremlin in Moscow that day. At the meeting, Putin praised the bilateral relationship between the two countries and once again expressed his gratitude for North Korea's support related to the Russia-Ukraine war. He also said he highly values the deep mutual understanding and friendship he has built with Kim.
"Please convey my regards to Chairman Kim," Putin said. "I highly value the mutual understanding and friendly relations that have formed between us on all current issues." Choe conveyed to Putin Kim's commitment to developing relations between North Korea and Russia.
Regarding the North Korean troops that took part in the Russia-Ukraine war, Putin said, "We will never forget the feats of the North Korean soldiers who were killed in action," adding, "We will honor North Korea's heroes together, just as we do our own people." Choe responded, "North Korea will unwaveringly support all of Russia's efforts to defend its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity and to eliminate the root causes of the Ukraine crisis, not only now but also in the future."
North Korea's Korean Central News Agency and other outlets reported on the 19th that Choe was visiting Russia, but as of yet have not reported on her meeting with Putin.
