North Korean Agricultural Delegation Heads to Russia Amidst Deepening Ties

A delegation from North Korea, led by Vice Premier Ri Chol Man, departed for Russia recently. The delegation, focused on agricultural matters, underscored the ongoing exchange between Pyongyang and Moscow amidst North Korea's persistent food shortages.

Ri Chol Man's visit followed the significant strengthening of ties between the two nations, particularly highlighted by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's trip to Russia's Far East in September, which included a summit with President Vladimir Putin.

The Russian ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, highlighted the substantial commitments awaiting Ri during his stay, indicating a packed schedule ahead.

In a notable policy address at a key Workers' Party meeting in December, Kim Jong Un emphasized the imperative to enhance agricultural productivity. He noted the necessity for modernizing farming equipment and upgrading irrigation systems. Despite assertions of progress in agricultural development, North Korea continued to confront food scarcity issues, exacerbated by enduring UN sanctions and seasonal natural calamities.

Ri Chol Man's elevation to the position of chairman of the Agricultural Commission emphasized his significant role as a seasoned technocrat in the agricultural domain, according to South Korean government records.

The exchange of delegations between North Korea and Russia has been frequent since the leaders' summit in September, with a noticeable uptick in recent months.