On the 21st (local time), Secretary of the Russian Security Council Sergei Shoigu met with North Korean Chairperson Kim Jong Un and conveyed a message from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
On that day, TASS and RIA Novosti reported that Secretary Shoigu said to Chairperson Kim, “I would like to convey warm regards and best wishes from Russian President Vladimir Putin,” adding, “President Putin is paying utmost attention to the implementation of the agreements we have reached.”
The meeting between Secretary Shoigu and Chairperson Kim lasted over two hours. Secretary Shoigu emphasized that Russia would adhere to the strategic partnership agreement signed with North Korea and stated that the document completely meets the interests of both sides.
Meanwhile, President Putin and Chairperson Kim signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement after their summit in Pyongyang last June. This treaty includes a provision whereby if one side is invaded and placed in a state of war, the other side will provide military support, which is considered to elevate the North Korea-Russia relationship to an alliance level.