Wish you success in building a 'powerful Russia': Kim Jong-un to Putin

On the occasion of Russia Day, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un greeted Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian people on Monday.

"Please accept my heartfelt congratulations to you and your people on the occasion of the Russia Day national holiday.. I wish you success in your responsible work of building a powerful Russia, of protecting its security and interests for the sake of the welfare and prosperity of your people," Kim said, as quoted by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Highlighting the long history of the relations between Russia and North Korea, Kim expressed hope that the traditions of friendship between the two countries would be further strengthened, reports Sputnik.

In 1992, the Supreme Soviet of Russia passed a resolution designating June 12 a public holiday in honor of the adoption of the declaration on the state sovereignty of Russia.