Putin to North Korean Leader: Russia Will Never Forget Your Country's Contribution to the Fight Against Nazism

SadaNews - President Vladimir Putin held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Beijing today, during which they discussed ways to develop "the close alliance relations between the two countries".

President Putin expressed his happiness at the opportunity for a separate meeting with his North Korean counterpart at the beginning of the talks, affirming that the meeting would include discussions on bilateral relations "in all their dimensions and axes".

He emphasized the special nature of the relations between Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea "based on trust and alliance".

Putin praised North Korea's role in the "joint struggle against Nazism, fascism, and militarization", specifically pointing out North Korea's contribution to the liberation of the Russian region of Kursk.

Addressing Kim, Putin said: "We will never forget the sacrifices made by your soldiers and their families. I want to thank you on behalf of the Russian people for this participation in the joint struggle against neo-Nazism in our time... Please convey my warmest expressions of gratitude to all the people of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea".

Putin noted that the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Beijing were held in a wonderful and high-level manner.

For his part, Kim confirmed that the relations between his country and Russia "are developing in all aspects" since the signing of the treaty of mutual defense and alliance between the two countries last year.

He added: "If we can assist the Russian government and people, we will do so without hesitation and will provide all support to Russia. This is our fraternal duty".

The meeting came after both leaders attended the 80th anniversary events marking Japan's defeat and the end of World War II in Beijing.