Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a high-profile bilateral meeting in Beijing on Wednesday, coinciding with commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
The talks took place at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, where Putin is staying during his visit. Both leaders had earlier attended China’s grand military parade and cultural events marking the anniversary. Putin praised the commemorations as “brilliantly organised and held at the highest level.”
Footage released by the Kremlin showed Putin and Kim travelling together in an Aurus car, exchanging smiles, shaking hands, and posing for photographs before beginning their discussions. During the talks, Putin highlighted that Russia–North Korea relations had evolved into a “special, trusting, and allied character.”
Kim Jong Un expressed readiness to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, pledging that North Korea would “always support Russia as a brotherly duty.” He thanked Putin for the meeting and reaffirmed Pyongyang’s willingness to back Moscow in its ongoing geopolitical challenges.
The meeting concluded with Putin inviting Kim to visit Russia soon. “We are waiting for you. Come visit us,” he said. Kim warmly responded, “See you soon,” before embracing the Russian leader.
The encounter underscored Moscow and Pyongyang’s growing alignment amid shifting global power dynamics, with both sides pledging to build on their strategic partnership.
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