Russian media outlets, including TASS, reported that Russia and North Korea have agreed to increase the number of charter flights operating between the two countries.
The agreement was reached during the 11th session of the Russia-North Korea Trade, Economic, and Scientific-Technical Cooperation Committee held in Pyongyang on November 19.
Alexander Kozlov, Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology and chairman of the Russian side of the committee, explained the decision, stating, “From January to September of this year, more than 5,000 tourists traveled between Russia and North Korea, with over 70% of them using air travel.”
Kozlov added that plans are underway to introduce direct flights not only from Russia’s eastern regions but also from major cities across the country.
The Ministry of Natural Resources noted North Korea’s interest in attracting Russian tourists to its developing resorts, such as the Samjiyon Ski Resort and the Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourism District.
Additionally, the ministry highlighted the implementation of an electronic visa system for North Korean nationals since last year, expressing hope that North Korean tourists will explore Russia’s renowned landmarks.
The ministry also revealed that through numerous meetings with North Korean counterparts, discussions have been held on expanding cooperation and exchanges in various fields, including sports, culture, tourism, and education.
Plans were also announced to establish a Russian language education center at Kim Chol Ju University of Education in Pyongyang.
Minister Kozlov, who led the Russian government delegation to Pyongyang on November 17, also met with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on November 18.
BY YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.youngnam@koreadaily.com]
