PYONGYANG — This week saw several significant events involving North Korea, ranging from diplomatic communications to cultural exchanges. The week included a message from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to Russian President Vladimir Putin, a festive mood ramping up for a national celebration, and high-profile visits involving Chinese officials and artists.
According to Yonhap News Agency, on April 8, Kim Jong-un sent a message to Vladimir Putin regarding recent flooding in Russia. The mood in North Korea then shifted to celebratory preparations for the upcoming birthday of the late founder Kim Il-sung on April 9. On April 10, a Chinese art troupe arrived in North Korea to perform, marking a year of key cultural significance. The following day, Kim Jong-un made a strong statement about delivering a "death-blow" to enemies in any potential confrontation, as reported by KCNA. Concurrently, Zhao Leji, China’s top legislator, arrived in Pyongyang. On April 12, Zhao met with a prominent North Korean politician to discuss strengthening bilateral ties.