Independence Against Imperialism – Historical Root of DPRK-DRC Friendship

 

The coming December 15 is a day which marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

On this meaningful day, we are looking back on the root of friendly tradition between the two countries that has lasted for over half a century.

60-odd years ago, DRC declared its independence after having freed itself from the colonial rule of the West. Right after this, a crisis was created in this country. The legitimate government became completely unable to conduct its normal activities and functions in less than half a year due to the high-handed intervention and aggressive maneuvers of the U.S.

The U.S. persistently schemed to overthrow the Lumumba government which had enjoyed absolute support of the DRC people and turn this country into its colony. At the end of 1960, the U.S. instigated its lackeys into an insurgency and illegally arrested the state leaders including the Prime Minister, Speakers of the Upper and Lower Houses and other patriotic personalities. By marshaling its accomplices, the

U.S. committed a gangster-like act of forfeiting the state representative right of DRC in the UN.

Upon hearing this news, President Kim Il Sung, a veteran statesman in independent politics against imperialism, gave teachings for the government of our Republic to support and encourage the DRC people in their struggle to end the rule and interference of outside forces and consolidate its independence.

President Kim Il Sung maintained his invariable stand that there may be large and small countries in the world, but in no way must there be higher or lower countries, and there may be developed and less developed countries in the world, but in no way must there be countries to dominate or to be dominated.

Following the measure taken by President Kim Il Sung, the DPRK Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement and condemned criminal acts of the U.S. and its accomplices in violation of the sovereignty of an independent country and declared our people’s will to struggle together with the DRC people against the common enemy.

Like this, under the exceptional attention of President Kim Il Sung, the starting point for the historical tradition between the DPRK and the DRC was made, and this tradition is now being continuously consolidated and developed as required by the new era.

Even in the face of the global health crisis and turbulent international situation, the DPRK and DRC are maintaining communication on a regular basis and making positive efforts to seek close cooperation in the development of the bilateral relations and in the international arena.

We will continue as ever to further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the DRC forged on the road to the independence against imperialism and justice in line with the common aspirations and desire of the two peoples.

Song Se Il

President of Korea-Africa Association