North Korea’s economy has entered a phase of gradual recovery after a period of contraction, according to Seoul’s Unification Ministry, citing the DPRK’s cooperation with Russia and rebounding trade with China. 

Pyongyang has formed and maintained “alliance-level” cooperation and transferred weapons and technology with Russia, while leveraging U.S.-China competition “to enhance its strategic autonomy and bargaining power,” according to a ministry report released Wednesday. 

The DPRK seeks to restore ties with China and “expand its diplomatic relations” centered on traditional allies, the report added.  

The report did not specify how North Korea’s economy is recovering or provide specific amounts. 

Pyongyang