Alexander Lukashenko at a meeting with the leader of the DPRK Kim Jong-un handed him an assault rifle, alcohol, food and souvenirs. The gifts were accompanied by comments on their quality and purpose.
Gifts from Lukashenko
During his official visit to North Korea, Alexander Lukashenko conveyed to Kim Jong-un VSK vending machine, vodka and a selection of Belarusian products. Among the presents were cinnamon rolls, chocolate, marshmallows, black bread, cheese, dairy products, honey and jam.
When presenting the machine gun, Lukashenko said:
“A soldier will always need small arms,” adding that it is “just in case enemies appear”.
The DPRK leader became interested in the machine gun, examined it and tried to reload it.
While handing over the alcohol, Lukashenko noted that this vodka “is not sold in stores” and called it “the best in the world”. Among the products, he singled out cheese and dairy products, emphasising their modernity.
Symbolic souvenirs and Kim Jong-un's response
Lukashenko also presented a servant's belt, calling it a Belarusian shrine, as well as linen napkins. He gave Kim Jong-un's wife a jewellery bouquet of golden cornflowers, a symbol of Belarus, and his daughter an artistic box.
In response, Kim Jong-un presented Lukashenko with a saber, a decorative vase with his image, and a souvenir gold coin.
Conclusion of a cooperation agreement
During the visit, the parties signed an agreement on “friendship and cooperation” between Belarus and North Korea. Minsk stated that the document defines the goals and principles of cooperation between the two states in the framework of future “mutually beneficial processes”.
Context.
Lukashenka's visit to the DPRK took place against the backdrop of increased contacts between Minsk and Pyongyang. In recent years, Belarus and North Korea have intensified political dialogue and the exchange of delegations.
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