North Korea intends to further improve its strategic cooperation with Russia, the North’s leader Kim Jong Un said on Wednesday during a summit meeting with visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Pyongyang will also “unconditionally support all of Russia’s policies”, Kim added.

North Korea "expresses full support and solidarity with the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect their sovereignty, security interests, as well as territorial integrity," he said.

Putin arrived at Pyongyang's airport earlier on Wednesday, making his first trip to the North Korean capital in 24 years. After Kim welcomed Putin with an embrace, the two shared "pent-up inmost thoughts" on the ride to the state guest house, North Korean state media said.