Belarus and North Korea Strengthen Economic Ties Amid Controversial Remarks

On June 2, Belarusian Foreign Minister Maksim Ryzhankou met with North Korean Minister Yun Jong Ho to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture, food security, and healthcare. This meeting followed a visit by Belarusian leader Aliaksandr Lukashenka to North Korea. Lukashenka also stated that Kim Jong Un is 'not a dictator' during discussions with a Russian official, highlighting his support for North Korea. The two nations are preparing for the fourth meeting of their Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation in Minsk. The focus remains on food security and healthcare collaboration, with both sides expressing eagerness to translate political ties into economic projects.

Key Points: • Belarus and North Korea are intensifying cooperation in agriculture and healthcare. • Lukashenko publicly defends Kim Jong Un, stating he is 'not a dictator'. • Preparations are underway for a key meeting on trade and economic cooperation.