Luxury Welcomes To Putin In North Korea

Russian President Vladimir Putin/DOK IST

JAKARTA - Crowds of people and luxurious ceremonies welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang, North Korea.

The honor guard includes equestrian soldiers and large crowds of civilians gathered in Kim Il Sung's square on the banks of the Taedong River flowing through the capital, according to a video broadcast by Russian media.

Children can be seen holding balloons and portraits of the giant two leaders with national flags adorning the main building of the square.

Kim and Putin then went to the Kumsusan Palace to hold talks.

We really appreciate your consistent and immovable support for Russia's policies, including towards Ukraine, the Russian news agency RIA quoted Putin's remarks at the start of the negotiations.

Putin said Moscow was fighting against the hegemonic and imperialist policies of the United States and its allies, the Russian media reported.

Kim said North Korea-Russia relations were entering a period of high new prosperity'.

"Now the situation in the world is becoming more complicated and changing rapidly. In a situation like this, we intend to further strengthen strategic communication with Russia, with Russia's leadership," Kim said.

North Korea has expressed full support and solidarity with the government, army, and people of Russia in carrying out special military operations in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, and territorial integrity, he said.