Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko began his first official visit to North Korea on Wednesday. The two-day visit aims to deepen political and economic cooperation.
The Belarusian state news agency Belta reported that the visits are focused on identifying key areas of mutual interest and promising projects for implementation. Both countries face Western sanctions and share close ties with Russia.
Lukashenko and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un previously met in September in Beijing at a military parade. Kim reportedly extended the invitation for the visit during that meeting.
Experts say the visits show solidarity between nations opposing the Western order. Lee Ho-ryung from the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses told AFP, “Kim will try to use the occasion to raise diplomatic profile and strengthen solidarity among the so-called anti-Western bloc.”
Earlier this month, Kim sent a letter to Lukashenko expressing a desire to expand friendship and cooperation to a “new, higher stage in line with the demands of the new era,” according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Lukashenko responded that Minsk is interested in actively expanding ties with Pyongyang at all levels.
Both nations have supported Moscow in its war in Ukraine. North Korea has sent troops and weapons, while Belarus has served as a launchpad for Russia’s invasion in 2022. Analysts say North Korea now receives financial aid, military technology, and energy supplies from Russia, reducing its reliance on China.
International organizations continue to accuse both countries of human rights abuses. North Korea faces criticism for torture, public executions, forced labor, and restrictions on freedom of expression. Belarus has jailed hundreds of political prisoners, despite releasing dozens recently due to U.S. efforts.
The visits highlight the growing alignment between Belarus and North Korea. Observers say they aim to reinforce mutual support, share experiences under sanctions, and strengthen their position on the global stage.
Lukashenko’s visits also underline the ongoing partnership between Minsk and Pyongyang in resisting Western pressure, emphasizing both leaders’ commitment to political and economic collaboration.
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