Present there on invitation were Kim Yong Jae, minister of External Economic Relations, Han Man Hyok, vice department director of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, Army Col. General Kim Hyong Ryong, vice-minister of the People's Armed Forces, Im Chon Il, vice-minister of Foreign Affairs, Kim Ik Song, general director of the General Bureau for Affairs with Diplomatic Corps, So Ho Won, vice-chairman of the Korean Committee for Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries who is chairman of the DPRK-Russia Friendship Association, officials concerned, foreign diplomatic envoys and representatives of international bodies and foreign military attaches here.

Staff members of the Russian embassy were on hand.

Speeches were made there.

Alexandr Matsegora said that the historic Russia visit made by Kim Jong Un, chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, was an important event.

Noting that the top leaders of the two countries agreed to closely cooperate with each other in the work for ensuring the development of the versatile bilateral cooperation and regional peace and safety, he emphasized that what can never be otherwise is the friendly relations between Russia and the DPRK with a reliable foundation and tradition.

Kim Yong Jae said that the first historic meeting between the top leaders of the DPRK and Russia last in April served as an epoch-making occasion to promote the development of the friendly ties of the two countries.

He said that the DPRK is delighted at the achievements made by the Russian people in firmly safeguarding the sovereignty and security of the country and the national interests, achieving sustained development of the economy and improving the people's living under the leadership of President Putin.