Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un Meet at Remote Russian Space Centre
Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un Meet at Remote Russian Space Centre
Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met on Wednesday at a secluded space centre in Russia's Far East region of Amur, according to CNN reports. This historic meeting between the two leaders is expected to involve discussions about a potential arms deal, potentially involving North Korea supplying weapons to Russia amidst the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
A Cordial Welcome at Vostochny Cosmodrome
Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un arrived at Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome, a space rocket launch site, on Wednesday, as reported by CNN. The event began with a handshake and brief exchange of words between the two leaders before they entered the facility.
Friendly Greetings
The Kremlin released a video capturing the moment when Kim Jong Un stepped out of a black car and exchanged pleasantries with President Putin. In the video, Putin is heard saying, "Hi. Glad to see you. How was your trip?" Kim Jong Un responded, "Thank you for inviting us and welcoming us while your work is busy," as reported by CNN.
Touring the Vostochny Cosmodrome
Following their initial meeting, the two leaders embarked on a tour of the Vostochny Cosmodrome, according to CNN, citing state media Russia 1 journalist.
Kim Jong Un's Arrival
Footage from Russia showcased Kim Jong Un's arrival at the remote Vostochny Cosmodrome space centre, where he disembarked from a green train that had transported him from North Korea.
Bilateral Relations and Formal Dinner
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that bilateral relations between the two nations will be a primary focus of the meeting. He described the meeting as a "full-blown visit, with talks between the two delegations," according to TASS. Additionally, a formal dinner is planned in honour of Kim Jong Un's arrival.
Kim Jong Un's Post-Pandemic Foreign Trip
Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia marks his first foreign trip since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, North Korea sealed its borders, restricting international travel, as reported by CNN.
(With ANI inputs)