Russia: North Korea & Russia kick off 'Year of Friendship'

Chairman of the North Korean cabinet Ro Tu Chol signing documents The opening ceremony of the 'Year of Friendship' between the Russian Federation and North Korea was held in Moscow on Tuesday. The ceremony was attended by presidential envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev and Deputy Chairman of the North Korean cabinet Ro Tu Chol. Leaders of the two countries announced plans to boost cooperation over the coming year. A number of documents were signed during the ceremony, including the plan of events for the Year of Friendship, and plans for scientific and cultural cooperation between the two countries among others. The Year of Friendship coincides with the 70th anniversary of 'Victory in the Great Patriotic War' and the liberation of Korea from Japanese colonial rule. Korean leader Kim Jong-un is expected to visit Moscow on May 9 for the Victory Day parade.