Russian President Vladimir Putin has notified North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that he is ready to hold a summit soon, according to greetings appearing on the front page of DPRK ruling party organ the Rodong Sinmun on Wednesday.

“I affirm that I am ready to meet you at an early date to discuss urgent issues of bilateral relations and important matters of the region,” Putin reportedly conveyed to Kim on the occasion of  Korea’s Liberation Day.

The Russian President also mentioned his willingness to work with both North and South Korea to “continue to develop reciprocal cooperation including the