MOSCOW. April 25 (Interfax) - The Russian visit of the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has counterbalanced the role of China in the Korean settlement process and confirms Russia's status as an important player on the global stage, according to Konstantin Kosachyov, head of the foreign affairs committee in the Federation Council.
"Through his visit, the North Korean leader to some extent has counterbalanced the role of China in the Korean affairs, which doubltess is quite significant, and dispelled the views that Russia's mission in this issue has been fairly modest. Pyongyang clearly views the situation differently and is ready for more active work with Russia and with President [Vladimir] Putin directly, as was confirmed during the summit on the Russky Island," kosachyov wrote on Facebook.
At the talks the two sides demonstrated unanimity on most issues of the Korean agenda, he said.
"Kim Jong-un expanded the range of his diplomatic efforts by indicating that 'Pyongyang does not live by China alone' and Russia in turn confirmed the status of an important international player who is essential to resolving key global problems," Kosachyov said.
Kim's desire to secure more active Russian involvement in the settlement process is understandable, he said. "Moscow has consistently adhered to its policy, agreed with Beijing as part of their proposed roadmap, which involves simultaneous efforts by the parties [North Korea, the United States and allies] to reduce tensions and achieve the main goal, [that of] the peninsula's denuclearization," Kosachyov said.