Belarus' Lukashenko gifts assault rifle to North Korea's Kim Jong Un

The leaders also shared views on regional and international matters of mutual interest

Last updated: March 27, 2026 | 12:31

Devadasan K P, Chief Visual Editor

1 MIN READ

Dubai: Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang during his first official visit to the country, where the two leaders signed a friendship and cooperation treaty aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

The agreement was signed following high-level talks, with both leaders describing it as a new phase in relations. Kim hosted Lukashenko with a formal reception, underscoring the significance of the visit.

During the discussions, the leaders explored ways to expand cooperation and enhance exchanges at various levels. According to official statements, they also shared views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Lukashenko described the agreement as a “fundamental” step forward, signalling deeper engagement between the two nations. The visit continues a pattern of growing diplomatic contact, with the leaders having previously met in Beijing in 2025.

The meeting reflects efforts by both countries to strengthen partnerships and broaden cooperation across political and strategic areas, highlighting evolving regional dynamics.

Video: AFP

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Devadasan K PChief Visual Editor

Devadasan K P is the Chief Visual Editor at Gulf News, bringing more than 26 years of experience in photojournalism to the role. He leads the Visual desk with precision, speed, and a strong editorial instinct. Whether he’s selecting images of royalty, chasing the biggest celebrity moments in Dubai, or covering live events himself, Devadasan is always a few steps ahead of the action. Over the years, he has covered a wide range of major assignments — including the 2004 tsunami in Sri Lanka, the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, feature reportage from Afghanistan, the IMF World Bank meetings, and wildlife series from Kenya. His work has been widely recognised with industry accolades, including the Minolta Photojournalist of the Year award in 2005, the Best Picture Award at the Dubai Shopping Festival in 2008, and a Silver Award from the Society for News Design in 2011. He handles the newsroom pressure with a calm attitude, a quick response time, and his signature brand of good-natured Malayali humour. There's no fuss — just someone who gets the job done very well, every single time.

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