Putin to Kim Jong—un: We have strong traditions of military brotherhood and mutual assistance

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a congratulatory message to North Korean leader Kim Jong—un on the occasion of the national holiday - Liberation Day. The telegram was published on the Kremlin's website today, August 15.

"This holiday is a symbol of the courage and steadfastness of Korean patriots and Red Army soldiers who fought together for the liberation of your country from Japanese colonial oppression. It was at that harsh time that strong traditions of military brotherhood and mutual assistance were laid, which became the basis for the development of friendly, good-neighborly ties between the Russian Federation and The DPRK,— Putin said.

Today, relations between Moscow and Pyongyang has reached an unprecedented high level of comprehensive strategic partnership. Our states are actively cooperating in all areas, coordinating efforts to ensure regional security and stability.

I am confident that we will continue to work constructively together on topical issues on the bilateral and international agenda — for the benefit of the Russian and Korean peoples, in the interests of building a more just, truly democratic world order.

I sincerely wish you good health and success, and happiness and prosperity to all citizens of the DPRK."