Statement on the Russian Federation's Military Cooperation with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea

As delivered by Minister Councellor Knut-Are Sprauten Okstad at the Joint Forum for Security Co-operation – Permanent Council, Vienna, 6 November 2024

Thank you, Chairs.

Norway aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union but wishes to add the following in our national capacity.

North Korea’s support for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine represents a dangerous escalation, a violation of UN Security Council resolutions which Russia itself helped to establish, and a significant expansion of this unlawful conflict. The presence of North Korean soldiers in Russia, with some reportedly mobilized to support Russia’s offensive, signals a troubling shift that further undermines European stability and destabilizes the Korean Peninsula. North Korea's involvement in the war is an unprovoked and aggressive act.  We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missile-related technology to North Korea.

Norway considers it highly relevant for the Security Council to address this issue; however, we fear that Russia may block any attempts to act.

Norway stands united with our partners in supporting a free, democratic Ukraine against all aspects of Russian aggression.

 

Thank you.