The ruling parties of North Korea and Russia have vowed to forge deeper cooperation following talks this week, with Moscow emphasizing the need to work together to counter Western sanctions.

Their agreement came after DPRK diplomats toured VIP property and Russia’s largest equestrian center during a separate visit, in a likely sign of North Korea’s plans to expand its diplomatic presence and import more purebred horses for its leadership.

The most recent delegation led by secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) Ri Hi Yong left for Russia on Monday, according to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang.

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