PYONGYANG: North Korea and Belarus have formalized their partnership with the signing of a “Friendship and Cooperation” treaty, coinciding with the first-ever visit of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to Pyongyang. The ceremony, marked by artillery salutes, goose-stepping troops, and large crowds waving flags, underscored the two nations’ intent to publicly demonstrate solidarity.
The agreement highlights growing cooperation between the two leaders, both of whom face Western sanctions and criticism over human rights practices. During the visit, Lukashenko laid a wreath at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, honoring the resting place of North Korea’s past leaders, on behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Belarusian media reported that Lukashenko stressed the importance of “independent countries [cooperating] more closely to protect their sovereignty and improve the well-being of their citizens.” Kim Jong Un reciprocated, pledging support for Belarus in resisting “illegitimate pressure from the West” and commending its efforts to maintain stability.
The leaders also discussed expanding collaboration beyond military and diplomatic spheres. Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov cited potential trade growth in pharmaceuticals, food, and North Korean cosmetics, as well as broader cooperation in agriculture, information exchange, and economic initiatives, although current trade volumes remain limited.
Observers note that the treaty reflects the broader anti-Western alignment promoted by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, aimed at fostering a “multipolar world.” Belarus and North Korea have both supported Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, with Minsk serving as a strategic base and Pyongyang reportedly providing soldiers, artillery, missiles, and other support.
Experts suggest the visit also serves to boost North Korea’s diplomatic visibility and signal unity among nations challenging Western influence. Lee Ho-ryung of the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses commented, “Kim is likely using this occasion to elevate North Korea’s diplomatic profile and reinforce solidarity among the so-called anti-Western bloc.”
The treaty solidifies the strategic, political, and economic alignment between two isolated nations under international sanctions, underscoring their commitment to strengthening mutual ties amid global tensions.