Russian President Vladimir Putin recently made a historic visit to Pyongyang, drawing the attention of Western countries, including the United States.
The international community closely watched the start of talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. During his visit, Putin received a grand welcome on the red carpet, where a large crowd greeted him by waving roses.
A spectacular military parade was also held in his honour. Notably, this visit marks Putin’s first trip to Pyongyang in 24 years, with his previous visit in the year 2000 when Kim Jong Il was the leader of North Korea.
Putin’s acceptance of Kim Jong Un’s invitation to visit North Korea in September of last year further underscored the significance of this diplomatic event.
Deep discussion between Putin and Kim
The anticipated discussion between leaders Putin and Kim has captured widespread attention and sparked global speculation.
While there is a prevailing assumption that the focus of their meeting will be on establishing military cooperation, North Korea has expressed its aspirations to enhance relations with Russia across various domains, including culture, agriculture, economy, and tourism.
Amid these discussions, there are conjectures about President Putin’s potential interest in procuring advanced weaponry from North Korea for Russian military needs and its nuclear program, which cannot be overlooked.
Commentators have underscored the significance of this meeting, emphasising its potential to significantly influence global affairs.
In addition to the talks with North Korea, Russia’s efforts to mend its relationship with South Korea are also under scrutiny.
Against the backdrop of the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, analysts are examining the dynamics of Russia’s engagement with North Korea through a multifaceted lens, considering its broader geopolitical implications.
An arms deal
Based on the information, it seems likely that North Korea will transfer the weapons it produces to Russia. This could lead to a long-term arms deal rather than just short-term conventional arms agreements.
North Korea is also anticipating receiving food and fuel in exchange for the supply of weapons. Additionally, North Korea is seeking technical support from Russia for its space technology efforts to become a leading power in this field.
Russia appears to have numerous opportunities to finalise the arms deal in light of these developments.
An answer to Western weaponry
North Korea is seeking Russian help to enhance the resolution of its spy satellites and develop nuclear submarines. Any discussion of atomic weapons will be kept confidential, and the Russian leader may be planning to exploit North Korea’s use of atomic weapons to weaken Western military power.
Human labour from North Korea to Russia
There have been reports in international media about North Korea’s efforts to boost its national income by sending more workers to Russia.
Russia needs to rebuild buildings and infrastructure damaged by war, and the contribution of North Korean workers has become crucial for this task. At the same time, Russia is facing a severe labour shortage due to military mobilisation and the migration of young people after the war against Ukraine.
As a result, Russia needs to bring in migrant workers from North Korea. However, due to the sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council against North Korea, it’s now prohibited for the country’s employees to work in foreign countries.
Russia, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, may cause global disturbance if it officially offers to recruit North Korean workers.
Railway service between the two countries – a strategy to win the hearts of the world
The train service between North Korea and Russia, which was suspended, resumed on June 6. The first train journey carried over 400 Russian tourists to North Korea.
This trip costs $750 and takes almost 4 days to reach North Korea. North Korea has planned various programs and trips for the Russian tourists arriving by this train.
This initiative is seen as an opportunity for North Korea to foster cultural connections and build confidence in its country among people from foreign countries.
It is evident that North Korea, often seen as an isolated state, is seeking ways to gain the goodwill of various countries worldwide. President Putin’s visit has provided North Korea with a significant opportunity, although it has raised concerns among Western countries, including the United States.
