Bilateral cooperation between Russia and North Korea has entered a new chapter with the resumption of direct flights between the two capitals. On Monday, Alexander Kozlov, Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources, arrived in Pyongyang aboard the first direct Moscow-Pyongyang flight in nearly three decades.
Yun Jong-ho, North Korea’s Minister of External Economic Relations, welcomed Kozlov in Pyongyang for talks focused on trade and technology. Both ministers co-chair the Intergovernmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, Science, and Technology.
During their meeting, the ministers reviewed progress on implementing a protocol signed by the committee in November 2024. In addition, working-level committees from both sides met separately to discuss specific cooperation areas. These meetings aimed to advance bilateral cooperation through concrete sectoral initiatives.
Premier Pak Thae-song also held a courtesy meeting with Kozlov on the same day. Both leaders reaffirmed their intent to deepen mutual engagement across economic and scientific fields.
Kozlov’s journey marked a milestone in transport ties, as he traveled via Nordwind Airlines. This flight, which departed Sheremetyevo Airport on Sunday evening, became the first regular direct air service between Moscow and Pyongyang since the mid-1990s.
North Korea organized a formal celebration at Pyongyang International Airport to mark the occasion. Kozlov and Yun both praised the event as a symbol of growing regional alignment.
“This is another clear sign of rapidly evolving bilateral friendship,” Yun stated at the airport ceremony. Kozlov echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing progress in transportation cooperation.
Currently, Nordwind Airlines plans to operate the route once a month. This schedule aims to maintain steady demand while supporting continued engagement between both governments.
Bilateral cooperation is set to expand further, with both sides expressing optimism. North Korea and Russia expect upcoming visits and talks to deliver tangible benefits in trade, science, and logistics.
In conclusion, the revived air link and ministerial meetings reflect a broader effort to solidify bilateral cooperation. With renewed air connectivity and shared goals, both countries move toward deeper strategic alignment and mutual development.
