Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Kim Jong Un, on the momentous occasion of the 70th anniversary of "the victory of the Korean people" in the Korean War of 1950-1953, the Kremlin said on Thursday.

In the congratulatory message, President Putin addressed Kim and expressed his heartfelt felicitations on the milestone anniversary of the Patriotic War of Liberation, highlighting the historical significance of the shared combat brotherhood between the two nations. He emphasized that this experience forms a solid foundation for advancing bilateral ties in the areas of politics, economy, and security.

"Dear Mr. Kim Jong Un, Dear friends! Please accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Korean people in the Patriotic War of Liberation," the congratulatory message said.

Furthermore, President Putin underscored the DPRK's support for Russia in the Ukraine war, emphasizing the alignment of interests and resolve to counter the collective policies of the West.

The DPRK announced in late June that it supported Russia, fully, as the latter dealt with the mutiny led by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

During a meeting between the Russian ambassador to Pyongyang, Alexander Matsegora, and Vice Foreign Minister of the DPRK, Im Chon Il, according to KCNA, the latter "expressed firm belief that the recent armed rebellion in Russia would be successfully put down."

Moreover, Im reaffirmed that a "strong Russian army and people would surely overcome trials and ordeals and heroically emerge victorious in the special military operation against Ukraine."

Putin optimistic about ties with African states

Putin expressed optimism about the future of Russia's relations with African countries during a reception for the guests of the Russia-Africa Summit and Economic and Humanitarian Forum in St. Petersburg.

The Russian leader hailed the strong bonds of friendship and mutual assistance as the cornerstone of Russian-African relations. He acknowledged the significance of the participation of delegations from nearly all African nations, signifying their eagerness to deepen contacts.

The summit, held from July 27 to 28, has gathered leaders and representatives from Russia and African countries to strengthen collaboration across various sectors. As an official media partner of the forum, Sputnik is providing coverage of the event.

Putin held a summit in Saint Petersburg with leaders from African countries, showing that the West failed to isolate Russia on the international stage. Putin has expressed his commitment to further developing cooperation with Africa after the grain deal exit.

Seventeen African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, attended the Russia-Africa summit.

The summit, the second of its kind after one held in Sochi in 2019, aims to discuss Russia-Africa ties and the impact of Moscow's withdrawal from the grain deal.

Russia supports peace, stability in Africa

Putin also affirmed Russia's unwavering dedication to preventing conflicts and fostering peace on the African continent.

Addressing the distinguished guests, President Putin highlighted Russia's readiness to contribute and collaborate in resolving existing crises and preempting new sources of tension on the continent. He pledged support in countering terrorism, extremism, pandemics, and hunger while also emphasizing the importance of enhancing food, environment, and information security.

The summit in Saint Petersburg is being held a month before a BRICS summit in Johannesburg. Putin has been invited to the summit and he will take part in every meeting of the BRICS leaders virtually.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron was not issued an invitation to attend the activities of the next BRICS meeting, as per a South African news outlet.

The heads of 70 nations received invites to the unification meeting from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is also the chairman of the BRICS, but neither the French President nor the United States or the United Kingdom leaders were included, according to the journal.

This is the third consecutive year that South Africa has held the BRICS presidency. The BRICS chairship will be held by Russia starting in 2024.

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