North Korean leader Kim Jong Un welcomed Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to Pyongyang with a 21-gun salute and military honours.

SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un welcomed Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to Pyongyang on Wednesday. The visit underscores the deepening ties between two key allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

State media KCNA reported the arrival on Thursday, detailing a ceremonial welcome. Kim greeted Lukashenko with a 21-gun salute, flag-waving citizens, and a march-past by the North Korean army’s honour guard.

Lukashenko paid respects at the Kumsusan mausoleum, which houses former North Korean leaders. He laid a flower basket in his own name and a separate bouquet sent by Putin.

KCNA’s report did not describe any substantive talks between the two leaders. The visit highlights the growing alignment among nations facing international isolation.

 The Sun Malaysia