SEOUL, December 2 (AJP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent a congratulatory letter to Laos on the 50th anniversary of its national founding, emphasizing the longstanding ties between the two countries.
According to the state-run [North] Korean Central News Agency, Kim expressed confidence in the continued development of friendly cooperation between the two countries in his letter to Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith. A floral tribute was also delivered through the North Korean ambassador to Laos.
In October, Sisoulith visited North Korea for the 80th anniversary of the Workers' Party, where he held talks with Kim. The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation and expressed optimism about the future of their traditional friendship.
North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui also held follow-up talks with her Lao counterpart Thongsavanh Phomvihane to discuss areas of mutual support.
While maintaining ties with its traditional allies like China and Russia, North Korea has been expanding its diplomatic relations with other socialist countries such as Laos and Viet Nam.
Analysts believe the move aims to reduce diplomatic isolation and challenge international sanctions over its nuclear weapons programs in pursuit of recognition as a nuclear-armed state.
* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.
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