Alexander Lukashenko and Kim Jong Un met in Pyongyang and signed a friendship and cooperation treaty, signaling closer ties between the two countries amid tensions with the U.S.-led West.

The agreement includes plans to expand cooperation across areas such as education, healthcare, and agriculture, along with increased high-level exchanges.

Both leaders emphasized shared views on international affairs and mutual support, framing their partnership as part of a broader effort to strengthen sovereignty and resist external pressure.

The meeting reflects a growing alignment among nations with strained relations with Western governments, including closer ties to Russia, the AP has reported.

The talks also highlight ongoing geopolitical shifts as North Korea and Belarus deepen cooperation while maintaining separate but parallel relationships with Moscow.