Kim Jong Un Inaugurates Memorial Hall, Hails 'New History' of North Korea-Russia Friendship Forged in Blood

North Korea has inaugurated a memorial hall dedicated to soldiers who participated in joint military operations with Russia, marking a significant moment in the deepening ties between the two nations. The ceremony, held in Pyongyang, commemorated the first anniversary of the 'Kursk Liberation Operation' and was attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

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We have etched a new history of friendship between North Korea and Russia, a new history of justice achieved through blood.

In his address, Kim Jong Un declared that a 'new history' of friendship between North Korea and Russia, 'written in blood,' has been etched. The event was further highlighted by the presence of high-ranking Russian officials, including Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the State Duma, and Andrei Belousov, the Russian Minister of Defense, underscoring the strategic importance Moscow places on this relationship.

Kim emphasized the need for unwavering unity and a strong bulwark against any crisis, stating that the resolve for the future is strengthened by such commemorations. This ceremony serves as a clear display of the military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. It also reaffirms the commitment to implementing the 'Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,' signed during Kim's visit to Pyongyang in June 2024.

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We must be strengthened as a true, dedicated, and powerful bulwark that copes with any crisis with united strength, regardless of how the rules of war change or when and where a crisis occurs.

The North Korean leader lauded the 'strategic significance' of the joint efforts, stating that they fought side-by-side to defend peace and sovereignty, and crucially, to thwart the resurgence of fascism and the hegemonic ambitions of powerful forces. Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a letter read by Volodin, conveyed that the 'unflinching valor' of the North Korean soldiers would be eternally remembered by all Russian citizens, expressing confidence in the continued strengthening of their comprehensive strategic partnership.

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The unflinching valor of the North Korean soldiers will forever remain in the hearts of all Russian citizens.

This event, coupled with reports of discussions on a five-year military cooperation plan (2027-2031), indicates a move towards institutionalizing the bilateral military alliance. The visit of the Russian Defense Minister to Pyongyang further signals a tangible increase in military collaboration, suggesting a long-term strategic alignment between North Korea and Russia.

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We are confident that we will continue to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership through joint efforts.