Lavrov says Russia-North Korea cooperation has 'stabilizing effect' on Eurasian continent

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday that the Russia-North Korea cooperation in general and the Treaty on Strategic Partnership in particular have a "stabilizing effect" on the Eurasian continent.

Speaking at a meeting with his North Korean counterpart Choe Son-hui in Moscow, Lavrov said the agreement between the two countries laid the ground for deepening cooperation in all spheres.

"The terms of the treaty are already being implemented for the benefit of the peoples of our countries, stability on the Korean peninsula, in Northeast Asia and on the Eurasian continent as a whole," he said.

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement was signed during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to North Korea on June 18-19. The document provides for the development of economic ties, military-technical cooperation, and mutual military assistance in case of an attack on one of the parties.

For her part, Choe, who arrived in Russia on Wednesday to hold “strategic consultations” with Lavrov, said North Korean leader Kim Jong-un voiced strong support and assistance to Russia and its people, "without looking back at anyone" from the very beginning of the "special military operation" in Ukraine.

"Kim Jong-un instructed us, without looking back at anyone, to consistently and powerfully support and assist the Russian army and the Russian people in their holy war," she said.

Choe Son-hui echoed Lavrov, saying the treaty between the two nations has already been put in practice, emphasizing the need to coordinate positions in the future as well.

Addressing recent reports about North Korea's test missiles launch, the diplomat said her country would continue to develop its defense capabilities.