N. Korea, Russia expand trade, scientific and economic cooperation

PYONGYANG - North Korea and Russia concluded a ministerial meeting in Pyongyang on Nov 20 aimed at expanding cooperation in the trade, economic, scientific and technological sectors, at a critical moment when global attention is focused on what Pyongyang might gain in return for dispatching troops to support Russia's war in Ukraine.

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The Unification Ministry in Seoul on Nov 21 noted that neither Pyongyang nor Moscow revealed core agreements in the economic and trade sectors - areas that could potentially violate UN sanctions against North Korea.

Instead, the two countries strategically emphasized plans in non-sanctioned areas, such as expanding tourism and increasing charter flights, while softer aspects of their partnership took center stage, exemplified by President Vladimir Putin's animal diplomacy through the transfer of more than 70 animals.

North Korea and Russia wrapped up the 11th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, Science and Technology by signing a protocol in Pyongyang on Nov 20, according to North Korean state media on Nov 21.

A Russian government delegation, led by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Alexander Kozlov, visited North Korea from Nov 17 to 20 to attend a meeting with a North Korean delegation headed by Minister for External Economic Relations Yun Jong Ho.