1. First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yong had a luncheon meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Titov in Moscow on July 27. Vice Minister Cho expressed appreciation for the Russian side’s cooperation regarding the Eurasia Express project, and exchanged views on the progress made in the ROK-Russia relations since they forged diplomatic relations 25 years ago; ways to increase substantive cooperation; issues on the Korean Peninsula; and regional situations.

2. Vice Minister Cho noted with appreciation that with this year marking the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the ROK and Russia as well as the 70th anniversary of liberation, the Eurasia Express served as a good opportunity to deepen exchanges and friendship between the peoples of the two countries. The two sides agreed to continue to cooperate to enhance connectivity on the Eurasian continent.

3. Vice Minister Cho and his Russian counterpart also agreed to work to facilitate economic consultations between the two countries in order to promote substantive cooperation, and continue to cooperate on the development of the Far East.

4. Concerning issues related to the Korean Peninsula, the two sides affirmed their common understanding on zero tolerance for North Korea’s nuclear program and the denuclearization of North Korea.

5. Meanwhile, Vice Minister Cho attended a welcoming ceremony for participants of the Eurasia Express who arrived in Moscow on July 26, and offered encouragement to them. He also attended events marking the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the ROK and Russia, including a music concert and an international academic conference, which took place as part of the Eurasia Express event.


*unofficial translation