Pyongyang: North Korea's public security ministry and Russia's interior ministry have signed an agreement to enhance cooperation on public safety and law enforcement. According to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang, the agreement was finalized following discussions between North Korean Public Security Minister Pang Tu-sop and Russia's Minister of Internal Affairs Vladimir Kolokoltsev in Moscow.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Russian Embassy shared that while specific details of the agreement were not disclosed, both parties acknowledged the importance of bilateral cooperation on public safety and security in light of the current geopolitical landscape. The focus areas for this cooperation include combatting transnational organized crime, addressing extremist and terrorist threats, and cracking down on illegal drug and human trafficking.

The ministers also stressed the importance of enhancing cooperation in border areas. As part of this initiative, North Korea and Russia are working on constructing a road bridge across the Tumen River, expected to open next year. This bridge project commenced in April, marking a significant step in their growing bilateral relationship.

At a forum in Vladivostok, Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted ongoing projects to build new bridges with North Korea, which are expected to facilitate increased cross-border movement and necessitate measures to address potential rises in smuggling and other crimes.

In related developments, North Korean Cultural Minister Sung Jong-gyu traveled to Russia to participate in a global cultural forum in Saint Petersburg. This visit underscores the expanding cooperation between North Korea and Russia in multiple sectors, including military, economic, and cultural domains, following their strategic partnership treaty signed in June of the previous year.