North Korea and Belarus Aim to Boost Diplomatic Relations

North Korea, represented by Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, is eager to strengthen its ties with Belarus. This is seen as part of a broader strategy to foster a new era of cooperation. Both countries are known allies of Russia, which is facing diplomatic isolation since its invasion of Ukraine.

North Korea is keen to enhance its diplomatic relations with Belarus in an effort to 'open a new era,' as stated by Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui on Wednesday. This announcement followed her meeting with her Belarusian counterpart in Pyongyang a day earlier.

The two nations, both allies of Russia, are looking to solidify their alliance at a time when Russia faces increased diplomatic isolation after its invasion of Ukraine two years ago. Moscow has stationed some of its tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus and conducted joint military exercises. Additionally, a groundbreaking agreement was signed last month between Russia and North Korea, allowing mutual military assistance if either faces armed aggression.

Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Vladimirovich Ruzenkov arrived in Pyongyang on Tuesday as a guest of North Korea's foreign ministry. During a reception at Pyongyang's Koryo Hotel, Choe emphasized the importance of 'comprehensively boosting the relations' between the two nations to 'open up a new era.' KCNA had earlier reported that the visit would last from Tuesday to Friday. Meanwhile, a Russian delegation led by Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov concluded their visit to North Korea and departed Pyongyang on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies.)