Seoul: In a notable diplomatic move, Sergei E. Naryshkin, the director of Russia’s External Intelligence Bureau, joined a delegation for discussions in Pyongyang, North Korea, from March 25 to March 28. North Korean state media KCNA reported that the primary agenda of the visit was cooperation against espionage activities.
During the visit, Naryshkin held talks with North Korean Minister of State Security Ri Chang Dae, where both sides exchanged insights on the international and regional scenarios affecting their respective nations, as outlined in the KCNA report. Additionally, they engaged in working-level discussions aimed at enhancing collaboration amidst what the report described as “ever-growing spying and plotting moves by the hostile forces.”
Per AFP, the report stated, “The two sides reached a complete consensus of views on the issues on the table at the two talks that proceeded in a comradely and amicable atmosphere.”
Reuters highlighted that this diplomatic exchange occurs within the broader context of North Korea’s efforts to expand its diplomatic engagements following the COVID-19 lockdowns.
The historical ties between North Korea and Russia date back to 1948 when the former USSR became the first nation to formally recognize North Korea’s sovereignty on October 14, 1948, shortly after its establishment. In a significant move in 2022, North Korea reciprocated by becoming the third country to recognize the independence of the breakaway states of Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics in eastern Ukraine. Consequently, Ukraine severed diplomatic ties with North Korea.
Over the years, military cooperation between North Korea and Russia has been on the rise, encompassing potential arms agreements and the exchange of advanced technologies related to satellites, nuclear-powered submarines, and missiles. In January 2024, reports emerged suggesting that North Korea would send a new class of tactical guided missiles to Russia, indicating a mutual commitment to further bolstering cooperation.
