North Korea to Provide Military Assistance to Russia in Case of Attack: Agreement

North Korea has ratified a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with Russia, State Radio ‘Voice of Korea’ reports. The corresponding order was published by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. According to the document, the countries are obligated to provide immediate military assistance in the event of an armed attack on either of them.

On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the law confirming the agreement. The document will come into effect on the day the instruments of ratification are exchanged and will have an indefinite term.

According to Article Four of the agreement, if one of the participants is subjected to an attack by another state or a group of countries, the other participant will provide military and other assistance. The document also stipulates that Moscow and Pyongyang will be able to conduct joint exercises “in the interest of preventing war and strengthening defensive capabilities.”

The agreement also envisions the development of cooperation in other areas such as agriculture, tourism, education, and healthcare.