North Korean media have increased the number of reports on how Russia has developed and are emphasizing friendly ties between the two nations.

From Tuesday, the day before a summit between North Korea leader Kim Jong-il and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, the number of North Korean reports on Russia outnumbered those regarding China. Meanwhile, when Kim set out on his visit to Russia on Sunday, the number of North Korean articles on Russia has doubled from what is usually reported.

The Rodong Sinmun, a daily for the North’s ruling Workers’ Party, published an article expressing hopes for bilateral ties and wrote about artistic exchanges.

Analysts speculate that the increase of Russia-related reports in North Korean media indicate the high hopes North Korea has regarding Kim’s visit and on improving ties with Russia.