Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his North Korean counterpart have emphasized close bilateral ties during a meeting. They may also have discussed a potential visit to Pyongyang by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Lavrov met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui in Moscow on Tuesday.

At the outset of their talks, Lavrov said he hopes to discuss expanding pragmatic cooperation in various areas. He also expressed gratitude for North Korea's support for Russia regarding its invasion of Ukraine.

Choe said North Korea is prepared to do everything to fulfill agreements reached in the summit meeting between the two countries held in September last year. She indicated Pyongyang's intention to promote bilateral ties in the military and economic fields.

Choe is expected to meet Putin later on Tuesday.

Russia's presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday that Putin has received an invitation from North Korea, and that he is likely to visit the country at an appropriate time.

The two countries, both in opposition to the United States and other nations, are deepening their ties. Reports say Russia has used ballistic missiles allegedly supplied from North Korea in attacks against Ukraine.