Strengthening Economic and Military Ties
The expansion of economic and military cooperation between Russia and North Korea takes center stage as Vladimir Putin visits Pyongyang.
According to Ziare the agreement signed between the two countries on Wednesday, June 19, not only underscores mutual assistance but also includes a clause that could impact the conflict in Ukraine.
This provision, reminiscent of Soviet-era relations with North Korea over 60 years ago, had been absent from recent agreements between Moscow and Pyongyang.
Implications of the Military Support Clause
The partnership agreement signed today includes mutual assistance in the event of aggression, as stated by Vladimir Putin, quoted by Gândul.
While Russia and North Korea signed a friendship and mutual assistance treaty in 1961, featuring an automatic military intervention provision, this clause was absent from their 2000 bilateral treaty focusing on economic, scientific, and cultural cooperation.
The reintroduction of this clause means Russia could potentially receive military aid from North Korea promptly.
Diplomatic Ramifications and Regional Concerns
The reintroduction of this clause raises concerns among diplomatic circles, particularly affecting Russia's relations with Japan and South Korea.
As staunch critics of North Korea's military actions, both countries are unlikely to overlook Russia's commitment to defend Kim Jong Un's regime under the new agreement.
With tensions already heightened over international military maneuvers, the activation of this clause could further strain diplomatic ties in the region.
