Russian President Vladimir Putin and the top leader of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un started their first meeting at Russias Far Eastern Federal University on the Russky Island here on Thursday. In his opening remarks, Putin expressed confidence that Kims visit will help resolve the situation on the Korean Peninsula, adding that Moscow welcomes the DPRKs efforts to develop inter-Korean dialogue and to normalize its relations with the United States. Echoing Putins remarks, Kim expressed the hope that the meeting will contribute to the development of Russia-DRPK relations and facilitate the settlement of the Korean Peninsula issue. The two leaders are expected to discuss a wide range of topics including the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, security in Northeast Asia and bilateral ties. Kim arrived here on Wednesday. Xinhua
