Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has expressed his gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for congratulating him on his reelection as president of state affairs, voicing hope for continued strong ties between the two nations, state media reported Wednesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim made the remarks in a reply to Putin the previous day after he was reelected as president of state affairs Sunday at the first meeting of the 15th Supreme People's Assembly. This marks his third consecutive term since the nation's top policy guidance body was created in 2016. Kim conveyed his sincere thanks to Putin for the warm congratulations on reassuming the "heavy duty" of the presidency.

The North Korean leader emphasized his belief that the firm relations and trust between North Korea and Russia will ensure the longevity and purposefulness of their bilateral relationship, promoting development and wellbeing for both nations. Kim asserted that Pyongyang's alliance with Moscow is a deliberate and unwavering choice.

Putin had sent a congratulatory message to Kim earlier in the week, expressing hope for continued close cooperation to further develop the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. Pyongyang and Moscow have enhanced military cooperation since signing a mutual defense treaty in June 2024, with North Korea providing troops and conventional weapons to aid Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.

Additionally, the leaders of Vietnam and Belarus also conveyed their congratulations to Kim on his reelection, as reported by the KCNA in a separate dispatch. Vietnam's President Luong Cuong expressed a desire for deeper ties with North Korea, while Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko showed interest in expanding political and economic relations across various levels. The North Korean government announced that Lukashenko will visit North Korea at Kim's invitation, with Russian media reporting that the visit is scheduled for March 25-26 for talks with Kim.