Kim Jong Un and Belarus President Lukashenko Meet in Pyongyang
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties Between North Korea and Belarus
Official Welcome Ceremony
SEOUL, March 25, 2026 (Reuters) – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un welcomed Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to Pyongyang on Wednesday, with a grand ceremonial reception underscoring growing ties between the two nations, North Korean state media KCNA reported on Thursday.
Tribute at Kumsusan Mausoleum
During his visit, Lukashenko paid respects at Pyongyang’s Kumsusan mausoleum, laying a bouquet sent by Russian President Vladimir Putin alongside his own flower basket, according to KCNA.
Military Honors and Public Reception
Kim greeted Lukashenko and his delegation with a 21-gun salute, a march-past of the North Korean army’s honor guard, and enthusiastic crowds of Pyongyang citizens and school children waving the flags of both countries, KCNA stated.
Prospects for Bilateral Talks
Awaiting Details of Discussions
As of Thursday, KCNA had not released details regarding the substance of discussions between the two leaders.
Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov told Belarusian state media that the two sides plan to sign a friendship and cooperation treaty during Lukashenko’s two-day visit, potentially boosting trade in food, and pharmaceuticals. DW.com reports that both nations face international sanctions, with North Korea sanctioned for its nuclear and missile programs and Belarus for human rights abuses and its support of Russia.
Solidarity Amidst Isolation
The meeting between Kim and Lukashenko signals solidarity between two of Russia’s closest allies. Both countries have aided Russia’s war effort in Ukraine; North Korea has supplied Russia with ammunition and troops, while Belarus has served as a staging ground for Russia’s 2022 invasion and now hosts Russian tactical nuclear missiles, bordering NATO countries. DW.com
According to Reuters, Kim Jong Un welcomed Lukashenko with a white-horse cavalry and the 21-gun salute.
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