Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent New Year greetings to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, hailing the past year as one of “special significance” for bilateral relations between Moscow and Pyongyang and a deepening strategic partnership.

In a telegram published by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Thursday, Putin said the relationship will “contribute to establishing a just order of the multi-polar world.”

“The past one year was of special significance in the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang,” Russia’s president said, citing Moscow’s appreciation for North Korean military assistance in repelling a large-scale Ukrainian incursion in Kursk Region.

The “heroic entry” of North Korean soldiers into battle and the subsequent work of North Korean combat engineers had “clearly proved the invincible friendship and militant fraternity” between the two countries, Putin said.

The Russian military reported in April that Ukrainian troops had been completely expelled from Kursk Region, while acknowledging the role of North Korean troops in the operation for the first time. Russia’s authorities have vowed to erect a monument in Moscow to the soldiers deployed by Pyongyang that were killed defending Russian territory.

Putin also said that, thanks to joint efforts, the provisions of the “historic” treaty on comprehensive strategic partnership have been “fulfilled in a planned way.” Signed in June of 2024, the landmark agreement includes a mutual defense clause, stipulating that if either side is subject to an “armed invasion,” the other will “provide military and other assistance… without delay.”

Russia’s leader has expressed confidence that Moscow and Pyongyang will continue their constructive cooperation, taking note of strengthening ties in political, trade, economic, human and other fields.