Pyongyang, December 22 (KCNA) -- M. Y. Fradkov, director of the External Intelligence Bureau of the Russian Federation, and his party, paid a condolatory visit to the DPRK embassy in Moscow on Wednesday to mourn the demise of leader Kim Jong Il.

On Tuesday, Yazov, former defense minister of the Soviet Union, Chief Viktor Yeliseev and vice chiefs of the Academy Ensemble of the Interior Unit of the Russian Ministry of Interior, Head and Chief Conductor Pavel Borisovich Ovsyannikov and the administrative manager of "Orchestra of the 21st Century" of Russia visited the DPRK embassy.

They laid bouquets before the portrait of Kim Jong Il and expressed condolences.

Fradkov said he could not repress sorrow at the news that Kim Jong Il passed away all of a sudden.

He went on:

The noblest reverence for Kim Jong Il and memory will be kept in my mind forever.

I believe that the Korean people under their supreme leader Kim Jong Un will overcome the present sorrow and difficulties and victoriously continue the struggle to build a thriving nation.

Former Defense Minister of the Soviet Union Yazov said he could not repress the sorrow and grief at the sudden demise of Kim Jong Il.

He went on:

Kim Jong Il was passionate man as he devoted himself to the country and the people without a moment's rest.

I believe that the Korean people will uphold Kim Jong Un as leader to successfully carry out the cause of President Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il for socialist construction.

Viktor Yeliseev made the following entry in the mourners' book:

"The life of Comrade Kim Jong Il is a shining example of patriotic devotion to the country. Comrade Kim Jong Il performed exploits hardly achievable in centuries.

The unforgettable impressions we got of Comrade Kim Jong Il when meeting him will always be remembered by us."

Pavel Ovsyannikov said the demise of Kim Jong Il is too heart-breaking to believe.

He wrote in the mourners' book that Kim Jong Il energetically conducted activities for the country, world peace and development of Russia-DPRK friendship. "We will always remember the happiness and pleasure and beautiful impressions we had when we were received by leader Kim Jong Il," he added.