PYONGYANG -- A high-ranking North Korean delegation, led by a senior official, has recently concluded a visit to Laos, emphasizing North Korea's intentions to enhance defense capabilities and strategic cooperation. This visit is part of Pyongyang's broader effort to solidify relationships with nations that share its socialist ideology.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the delegation, headed by Kim Song-nam, director of the international department at the North's ruling Workers' Party of Korea, engaged in discussions with Thongsavanh Phomvihane, head of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party's external relations committee. The meeting, which took place last Friday, was reported to focus on bolstering "comrade-like and strategic" cooperation between the two countries.
Laos represented the final destination in a three-nation tour that also included stops in China and Vietnam for the North Korean delegation. Additionally, Kim Song-nam conducted a courtesy visit to Thongloun Sisoulith, the secretary general of the Communist Party of Laos, further underlining the significance of the trip in strengthening bilateral relations.
This diplomatic outreach by North Korea comes in the wake of South Korea establishing diplomatic relations with Cuba, a country with which Pyongyang has historically claimed close ties. The visit to Laos and discussions on defense and strategic cooperation reflect North Korea's ongoing efforts to maintain and expand its network of alliances among socialist countries.