North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, expressed his condolences on the 20th for the tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi who was killed in a helicopter crash. Kim particularly referred to President Raisi as a “close friend of the North Korean people,” showing a sense of intimacy.
The Korean Central News Agency reported on the 21st that Kim sent a message of condolence to Mohammad Mokhber, the First Vice President of Iran, the day before.
In his message to Vice President Mokhber, Kim wrote, “I was shocked to hear the tragic news of the sudden death of Iranian President Raisi. I express my deepest condolences to the government, people, and bereaved family of your country.”
Kim emphasized, “I am confident that your government and people will overcome this great loss and continue to move forward powerfully to build a strong and revolutionary Iran.”
North Korea has held several high-level meetings with Iran, a traditional ally. North Korea and Iran, as representative anti-American countries, have formed a close relationship based on it and had significant conflicts with the United States, including negotiations on nuclear issues.
Last month, North Korea actively tried to build bilateral relations, including sending Minster for External Economic Relations Yun Jong Ho to Iran. There have been speculations that the two sides might start discussing military cooperation in response to the volatile Middle East and Northeast Asia situation.
President Raisi of Iran crashed into a mountainous area while returning from a dam completion ceremony in the Varzaqan area of East Azerbaijan Province on the 19th (local time). Local media reported on the 20th (local time) that President Raisi and all the passengers on board died in the crash.
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