Russia’s defence deal with North Korea shows intention to play greater role in Asian affairs

LONDON – Russian President Vladimir Putin’s

visit to North Korea

and the signature pact promising “mutual help” in the event of “aggression” against either country underscore Russia’s determination to play a far more prominent role in Asian affairs – one that could offer a counterbalance to China’s regional influence.

Despite Russian claims of a “decades-long friendship” with North Korea, links between the two neighbours have in reality stagnated since the disintegration of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s.