Present there on invitation were personages of the government, political parties, bodies and organs of Russia including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Development of Far East, the Ministry of Economy and Development, the State Duma, the United Russia Party, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, the Liberal Democratic Party, the Party for Peace and Unity and the Russian Association for Friendship and Cultural Cooperation with the DPRK.

The DPRK ambassador to Russia and staff members of his embassy were on hand.

The participants laid a floral basket and bouquets before an art piece depicting President Kim Il Sung standing together with Chairman Kim Jong Il and paid tribute to them.

Speeches were made at the reception.

Igor Morgulov, vice foreign minister, said that Russia and the DPRK are linked with ties of firm friendship and cooperation and good experience from the recent cooperation becomes the foundation of the development of many-sided and equally-beneficial relations between the two countries.

Alexandr Fomin, vice-minister of defense, warmly congratulated the Korean people celebrating the 70th birthday of the DPRK.

Wishing the Korean people greater success in their struggle for development, prosperity, peace and stability of the region, he said that the Korean people displayed heroism and courage in the defence of the country and creative work. He added that Russia will fully support the DPRK as ever.