Rodong Sinmun says that the friendly relations between the DPRK and Russia have long and deep historical roots and tradition.

It goes on:

Russia was the first to open diplomatic relations with the DPRK, the genuine people's country, which was founded by the Korean people after bringing down the Japanese imperialists' colonial rule and setting about building a new society.

This greatly encouraged the Korean people who had to explore the untrodden path of building a new country under the complicated situation where everything was in short supply after the liberation of Korea.

Since then the two countries have weathered all sorts of ordeals and storms while closely cooperating with each other in various fields including politics, economy and culture on the principle of independence, mutual respect, non-interference in other's affairs and equality.

The DPRK-Russia ties are becoming closer in all domains with great vitality.

The Russian Federation has increased its position and influence while preserving independence and achieving stable economic development even under the complicated international situation.

The Korean people sincerely hope that the efforts of the Russian people to achieve social stability and national unity and build a powerful state will yield good fruits.

Minju Joson stresses that the long-standing traditional DPRK-Russia friendship will grow stronger thanks to the common efforts of the two peoples.