North Korean Leader Discusses Implementation of Outcomes from Russia Visit with Ruling Party

The Korean Central News Agency reported on Friday that leader Kim Jong Un discussed follow-up measures regarding the outcomes of his recent visit to Russia during the first official meeting of the ruling Workers' Party's Political Bureau since his return. Kim returned to his country last week after a week-long visit to Russia, during which he agreed with Russian President Vladimir Putin to enhance military and economic cooperation. The North Korean agency stated that Kim briefed the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Party on Wednesday about his visit and explored ways to implement the visit's outcomes "in a practical and comprehensive manner," as well as "constructive" long-term measures to develop relations with Russia. The agency noted that Kim emphasized the necessity of strengthening communication and cooperation in relevant areas between the two countries. It commented that the visit elevated bilateral relations to a "new strategic level in accordance with the requirements of the era, and brought about a radical change in the global geopolitical situation."